Hope
Bachelor of Arts specialising in Society, Diversity, and Change
Hometown: Hanmer Springs
Why did you choose to specialise in Society, Diversity and Change?
My passion is people and serving my community. There's so much that needs changing, and there's always room for improvement or advancing in society.
How does a specialisation differ from a normal major/minor structure?
It’s more under a theme rather than specific disciplines, so I get to try courses across different departments. It allows me to see what I like and what I don't like, and it allows greater flexibility with where I want to go or who I'm becoming as a person.
What do you like most about your studies?
I don't have a set path, and I think that's what I'm most excited about, understanding the past and the world we are living in now, and applying that knowledge to shape the future.
My specialisation sets me up really well for going into a variety of different sectors and areas of work. It’s also teaching me more about what I'm most passionate about.
Are you involved with any clubs at UC?
I am on my second year of the executive team for the student-run men’s mental health organisation, Lads Without Labels, and volunteer as their Marketing and Creative Director. The cause is especially meaningful to me, having seen firsthand the challenges those around me face in navigating mental health.
Lads Without Labels offers so much, and the team’s dedication to the cause always blows me away. Lads Without Labels is important because we offer a space for students to get support, build community, and have conversations around mental health during an often stressful and challenging time of their life.
Does your work with Lads Without Labels align with your studies at all?
Absolutely. I have been able to take a few communications courses that allowed me to apply my learnings to my work running their social media pages. My course last year fell within the period of Run72, our biggest event, so learning those skills through my course really enhanced the work that I was already doing.
I think it also enhances where I see my degree going. It gives me a lot of hope, direction, and motivation for creating change in whatever part of society I end up in. I want to be able to campaign and advocate and offer my skills and strengths to those who need it.
What do you like most about being at UC?
One of my favorite things has been coming to an environment where everyone wants to learn and is there to expand and grow. It's been really encouraging, seeing the diversity in students and connecting with people who have been through all walks of life.
How does your faith influence your journey?
Coming to university and rediscovering my faith was a really big part of my journey. I've been able to connect with a church community, which has become another extension of support. It’s helped me realise that it's okay to bring all of yourself to university and not leave anything behind at the door. I’ve found that there is a space here for you to come as you are, no matter what your background is.
What do you like about being a student in Christchurch?
There’s so much on offer with outdoor experiences and lots of exciting things in the city. I feel like it's such a typical Christchurch thing, but I like going walking in the hills with my dog. You get the mountains, you get the seas, you get the beautiful garden city. I shoot film photography and I love landscapes, so getting outside is one way that inspires me.
Why is UC special to you?
UC is special for what it's taught me and how it's helped me grow as a person, through everything that I've been able to engage with and the community that I've been able to be a part of. I wouldn't be where I am without this experience.
Any words of advice for other students considering UC?
Consider your options. Don't box yourself in. Everything's meant to be explored and challenged. University is a great place to learn and encounter new things.
And don't underestimate the value of an Arts degree. It’s not as set a pathway as a law or engineering degree, but I think that's the beauty of it. It allows you to mold it into your own experience, and it will be completely unique to who you are. There are so many options of where it can lead. It’s truly what you make of it.
