What is studying UC’s Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability (BSEnS) like?
The degree itself is interesting and engaging, with assessments being a mixture of presentations, tests/exams, essays, and reports. I’m able to take a wide range of papers, which gives me a wider knowledge base. It encompasses courses from the Business, Science and Arts faculties, including economic, geography, sustainability and environmental science papers.
What inspired you to choose this degree, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I’ve always been interested in sustainability and the future of businesses, and the BSEnS seemed perfect for me because it allows me to do both economics and geography. I love that it’s forward-thinking degree and asks the big questions while also teaching us about the inner workings of businesses and how they operate.
At the end of my degree, I feel that I am going to have a good foundational understanding of sustainability and businesses, but also businesses in general, which will allow me to work in different areas. I also enjoy learning about, discussing, and critiquing current standards, goals, and certifications about efficiency to see if there are ways to better combat problems.
Where would you like to end up after graduating?
At the moment I see myself going into a corporate company – perhaps in the development space – and helping them with their sustainability plan for the future, including what they can do to reduce their footprint and determining what changes will be both sustainable and financially positive.
Why did you choose to study at UC?
I wanted to study somewhere outside of Auckland, my hometown. UC was a no-brainer for me as it is one of the top universities in New Zealand, and it also offers heaps of outdoor opportunities with its close proximity to things like the Port Hills and ski fields.
What do you enjoy about being a UC student?
There is so much to love about UC. The campus is beautiful and the people are amazing. I have found the students to be engaged, welcoming, and friendly, and everyone is so active in sports and the community. The lecturers are also friendly and want the best outcomes for their students.
Have you faced any challenges during your study and, if so, how did you overcome them?
During my first year of study, I wasn’t quite sure that the degree I initially chose was right for me and I felt a little lost. UC has so many options and opportunities, and as I did more research into what was offered I was able to find the BSEnS degree. Now, I am loving what I’m studying.
Have you taken part in any internships, field trips, or other practical experiences at UC?
I interned at Cooper and Company in Auckland, working under the Director of Sustainability and Brand. My job was to research new certifications and standards they may choose to do or may be required to do in the future. I got to learn about multiple businesses, how they run, and all the different teams involved.
I’ve also been on some field trips through my geography and sustainability courses, which are great because they extend your learning out beyond the lecture hall into the real-world that you’re learning about.
How did these practical experiences benefit you?
My time at Cooper and Company put into perspective what I have learnt through my courses at UC, as well as furthered my learning in my specific area of interest of business sustainability. I would really encourage students to do an internship, as it provides a great experience and exposure to your area of interest and allows you to put into practice what you have learnt in courses.
Have you made use of any of UC’s support services?
I am dyslexic, so I have used UC’s disability services with midterm tests and exams to get computer usage and extra time. They were easy to contact and set up a meeting with, and were very helpful in sorting out the special conditions that I need.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I love skiing, running, spending time with friends, and volunteering for Make-A-Wish. I’m also a part of CUSSC – Canterbury University Snow Sports Club.
Do you have any advice for someone considering studying in your degree area?
Go for it. Sustainability is a rapidly growing area. Every company needs someone working in this area, and it’s likely to increase in the future as government policies will get stricter. It is interesting, and it opens so many opportunities in a range of sectors like business, health/population, environment, community, and more.
