Sukhleen

Why did you decide to study the conjoint degree at UC?

I always thought Product Design sounded cool because it's a combination of engineering, business, and design. I’m also a big fan of accounting and numbers. This conjoint degree combination felt like it was made perfectly for me, and it’s not available anywhere else in New Zealand.

What are the benefits of a conjoint degree?

A conjoint pretty much takes two degrees and merges them into one, so it takes less time compared to a double degree. UC has specifically designed its conjoints for those two degrees. When you graduate, you’ll have the skillset from both. Employers like to see that, and it opens a lot of doors. It’s a great option if you’re considering two different pathways.

What would you like to do after you graduate?

My degree offers a lot of flexibility. I'd love to work in a lab, preferably in the cosmetics industry, to help brands manufacture their products. I'm also quite passionate about accounting, so I'd also consider working for an accounting firm. If I wanted to combine the two, I could work as an accountant for a cosmetic manufacturing company or even for my own brand.

Have you had any standout projects so far?

My favorite thing about Product Design has been how hands on it is. We do a lot of work in the labs with ingredients and equipment. We had one project where the brief was to solve an environmental, social, or economic problem. I decided to do something agricultural/animal-oriented and developed an insect protein-based dog food.

It introduced me to the process of how I would take something from an idea and turn it into a brand. I was really happy with what I created, and I would love to continue it in the future.

Did you complete an internship?

I did a summer internship with a New Zealand-based cosmetic manufacturing company where I worked as a Research and Development lab technician. It was a great experience, and I found that so much of my learning was applicable to my role. It makes you feel less intimidated going into the workforce because you realise that you’ve got a lot of knowledge and you’re quite prepared.

What extracurricular opportunities does UC offer for business students?

I was the startup manager for Entre, UC’s entrepreneurial society. They run the Enterprise Challenge, which pairs students with mentors to prepare them to pitch their ideas to potential investors and judges. It gives students the tools to develop their own business, which many participants go on to actually do. I participated in the challenge during my first year, and it was a great experience.

Are you involved in any other clubs?

I’m an Events Manager for the Student Volunteer Army (SVA). We gather students to volunteer wherever we can, both in and outside of Christchurch. It’s a great club and I'm so stoked to be part of it. I believe it’s important to give back to the community, even if it’s just with some of your time. Volunteering is amazing because it gives you the power to provide extra support to under-resourced or underprivileged people and communities.

Did you live in the halls your first year?

Yes – I stayed at Tupuānuku. Living in a hall my first year was one of the best decisions I made. Moving in early and having a hall orientation week made it a seamless transition. I made friends my first day there, and I'm still friends with those people now. I'd recommend halls to anyone, especially if you're from another city.

What do you like about living in Christchurch?

Christchurch has such a different change of scenery from Auckland. There’s much less traffic and lots of nature; it feels like a breath of fresh air. I really like running and biking through Hagley Park, especially by the lake. There are so many parks in the city I could probably find a new one almost every day. It’s good to have these green spaces.

How have you seen yourself grow since you started at UC?

I've become much more independent and confident. If I hadn't made the move to UC, I feel like I would not be the person that I am now. You have to come out of your comfort zone to really grow, and I feel like that's what I've done. It's been a great experience.

Any advice for other students considering UC?

Even if you're scared or anxious, just do it. It’s normal to feel that way before a big change, but it doesn't mean it's not the right decision – it just means that you're going out of your comfort zone.