WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Dienke Jansen
Master of Arts
A mother of two, Dieneke Jansen is currently in her final year of a Master of Arts. Dieneke's passion for life-long learning is obvious, as she has returned to university after 20 years to attain her MA. Dieneke chose to study at AUT because it offers the MA on a part-time basis, enabling her to continue with her job as a secondary school teacher.

"My decision to return to study was to receive more critical feedback and create dialogue about my work. Going back to study gives you the affirmation you need as an artist. The support of AUT staff has been invaluable in easing the transition back into tertiary learning, particularly with the academic side of the MA such as essay writing. The diversity of students completing the programme also offers for a great exchange of ideas," she says.

Laurna Hall
Bachelor of Communication Studies
Laurna Hall cut her OE short to study the Bachelor of Communication Studies. But a successful journalism career working for TV, print and radio makes it all worthwhile.

"The course was fantastic. We were assigned to a community newspaper from the start and then we did an internship as well. It was great because you actually got to meet the journalists and learn from them."

Yi Shao Chang
Bachelor of Business
The language barrier hasn't stopped Yi Shao Chang achieving his goals since he completed his first qualification at AUT in 2000. Three years on, the business student has completed a Certificate in Business, a Diploma in Marketing and is currently in his first year of the Bachelor of Business.

"What I learned in the Certificate and Diploma is helping for the study of the Bachelor of Marketing. I not only learned how to do assignments, but also many other things, such as research and presentation skills. The lecturers are very helpful."

Amanda Jordan
Conjoint Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Applied Science
Amanda Jordan wanted to study both science and business, so that's exactly what she's doing at AUT.

"I am in the final year of the conjoint degree and my majors are information technology, management and human anatomy and physiology. I have received excellent support from my supervisors and postgraduate students. I just love the hands-on nature of research and could definitely progress into a research-based career."

Eugene Paewai
Bachelor of Applied Science
Science wasn't one of Eugene Paewai's favourite subjects at school, but now that he's studying human anatomy and physiology, that has all changed.

"Having already gained certificates in applied science and nutrition, I am now studying for a BAppSc in human anatomy and physiology. The job opportunities that exist for science graduates are exciting and I believe that more Maori should consider a career in science. My long-term goals are to gain a masters degree and perhaps become a lecturer."

Graham Carter
Bachelor of Engineering
Engineering at AUT helped Graham Carter appreciate the value of using his technology skills in a practical way. Since graduating, he's joined Mastec International, where he is an electronic engineer.

"Through the use of advanced technology I am able to assist and revolutionise the world I live in and make people aware that technology enhances our existence."

Emma Phillips
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation
Emma always had a passion for sport which is why she enrolled for the Diploma in Sport and Recreation, and then followed that with a degree in the same subject. Now she has a career in something she is really interested in, sport, as the Marketing Co-ordinator for Puma New Zealand.

"I started with the diploma course and I had a practical placement with Sport North Harbour. Then I was able to cross credit papers into the Bachelor of Sport and Recreation. After having my practical placement with Puma I obtained this great job. I now work with high profile sports teams such as the Vodafone Warriors, NZ Kiwis and do the overall marketing nationwide for Puma."

Charmilla Autar
Bachelor of Health Science in Applied Mental Health
Two years after having a baby, at the age of 16, Charmilla Autar decided it was time to gain some qualifications. She enrolled in the Diploma in Violence and Trauma Studies at AUT, and then completed a Bachelor of Health Science in Applied Mental Health. Charmilla now works as a victim advisor at the Auckland District Court.

"The diploma was an eye-opener; challenging and so valid to the field I wanted to work in. As a programme it challenged my perceptions of the world and was a great stepping-stone into employment or further study. I cross-credited some papers to complete a degree and now I work daily with people who are victims of a range of crimes. I never know what to expect when I come to work, but I can help victims to have their views portrayed."

Rangomaianiwaniwa Milroy
Bachelor of Maori Development
Mother of two, Rangomaianiwaniwa Milroy, is studying for a Bachelor of Maori Development while also working as a sports reporter and weekend news presenter for Maori television. She says AUT's Te Ara Poutama, Faculty of Maori Development, has helped her look at the world in a whole new way.

"Before I took up the course I was not very ambitious and did not really care what I did, but now I know that even a small town Maori girl like me can achieve whatever she sets her eyes on. New avenues and new opportunities are open for you. Use them well. Always keep your eyes on the prize - no matter how hard things get just keep going. In the end, the only person you can depend on is yourself. So do your best."