Despite pursuing different majors, Zoe Double, Charlotte Sweney, and Portia Wyatt have all landed in the same course - Te Tiriti o Waitangi (MAST104).
Zoe Double is into her second year studying towards a Bachelor of Science majoring in Environmental Science and Water Management at Lincoln University. As a requirement for her studies, she enrolled in MAST104.
“It was such a pleasant surprise to see Portia and Charlotte in the first lecture. It’s so welcoming to see friendly faces from the Coast and have fellow students to discuss upcoming assignments and questions we all have,” she shared.
“As we are all studying some kind of environmental studies, it’s nice to be able to collaborate and come together to discuss common ideas and concerns going on in our environmental and respective fields.
Already being at Lincoln University before Portia and Charlotte begun their studies, Zoe said it gives her the opportunity to support them and provide any advice they may need.
“I love the sense of unity and support we have, all coming from the West Coast and studying a similar industry,” she said.
This year, Portia Wyatt has transferred from Otago University to Lincoln University to complete a Bachelor of Environmental Policy and Planning (Hons). She said “it was a nice surprise to see the others in my class.”
Charlotte Sweney has just started her first year at Lincoln pursuing a Bachelor of Environmental Management.
“It was lovely to start university seeing familiar faces in one of my classes. As West Coasters we’re able to bounce ideas off each other and connect,” she said.
Zoe adds, “It’s also useful as we could all carpool back home for the weekend!”
Jade Mahuika, DWC vocational coordinator, said the scholarships are not just providing pathways for our rangatahi to attain tertiary qualifications. “They are also helping build a network of talented young Coasters, which will have long term benefits for the region.”
Photo: Portia Wyatt, Charlotte Sweney, Zoe Double, and Lincoln University Proctor Greg Ryan.
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