When I think back to my first year of study, I have no idea how I made it through. I wasn’t eligible for the student allowance so I worked 20-30 hours a week and took seven papers over the year. I thought I was crazy and probably thought I was Superwoman, but I did it. I managed to get through it and I know you will too!
Today for many of you, it is the first day of what will be a challenging, long, yet incredibly fast-paced year. Come November, you will look back and wonder where on Earth the year went. Managing your time without going stir crazy is a process that you will have to go through. I hope that VUWSA can be part of that experience for you! And there are so many ways in which we can make your university life more fulfilling.
This week, the more obvious and visible stuff like our awesome O Week events are happening. We have the comedy and hypnotist gigs on that will be a barrel of laughs, there is also Clubs Week Monday through Friday 11-2pm. Also in a couple of weeks our Free Flu shot clinics will be kicking off. If you are living in a Hall we will be visiting you in the evenings from March 12—check out your noticeboards for details soon. We will be having clinics at Te Aro and Karori campuses too. Karori, we’ll see you on the 15th; and Te Aro on Monday 2nd April. Kelburn clinics will run from 19th to the 22nd.
As mentioned earlier, we have Clubs Week happening this week. This is your opportunity to check out the extra-curricular activities on campus. There are just so many clubs on campus I wouldn’t even know where to start! There is something for everyone and clubs week is a chance to let current club members woo you into their fold. So many freebies—plus the famous VUWSA BBQ will make it all the more worth your while checking it out!
In addition to all this we have ongoing services to keep you going. If you are roughing it for a week because of extra bills come and grab a food parcel from us. No questions asked, you can get one from us up to four times a year. We also have a free bread service. Local bakeries donate their left over goods at the end of the day and we pass this on to you! Come to the office 9am Wednesday and Friday to get some delicious fresh bread—don’t be late, this is a very popular service.
We also have a Student Advocate who can help you out with the tiniest of problems you might be having or ongoing stuff. For instance, if you are having problems in your flat or with your landlord our expert Lorraine is here to help. Please contact our office to make an appointment with her!
Here’s to a great 2012. Enjoy your first week!,
Ta’ase