This year as the UCSA International Representative has been the most transformative and humbling experience. Being a student during a global pandemic has been crazy and challenging; however, it has filled me with hope seeing the perseverance and strength of the international community at UC.

The time has come for me to say goodbye, as I am handing the role over to the 2021 International Representative Matt Wong-Kam. I know he will do an amazing job and I am looking forward to hearing him represent your voice next year! I will continue to be your International Rep until the end of the year, so if you need anything, feel free to email international@ucsa.org.nz.

Summer Help for International Students

A survey conducted by UC states that over 95% of our international students will be remaining in NZ over summer and so UC is working hard to bring together options for these students.

1. UC Careers has set up three seminars for students to learn how to use LinkedIn to build professional connections.
   • LinkedIn Beginners: Tuesday 24 November, 10–11am
   • LinkedIn Beginners: Tuesday 1 December, 9–10am
   • LinkedIn Advanced: Tuesday 1 December, 11am–12pm.

For further information and to register to attend, please visit The Hub.

1. UC Careers has emailed 500+ employers reminding them of the wealth of talent we have here at UC looking for summer work and graduate employment.
2. Check out worktheseasons.co.nz and a YouTube webinar on horticulture jobs over summer.
3. The UCSA, UC and the Student Volunteer Army are planning to run events this summer! We’ll let you know as soon as details are sorted.

International Representation at UC

2020 is only the third year of the UCSA having a dedicated International Representative, and in that time, the role has grown immensely. This year I have been an active member in the International Committees of all five colleges – Arts, Science, Business and Law, Engineering and Education, Health and Human Development. I have also continued to consult the International Advisory Group regarding issues students are facing at UC. Furthermore, I sit with your UCSA Student Executive in meetings and workshops to discuss problems and provide solutions that benefit you!

This year I noticed a lack of focus on international student experience. So, I helped form a group that tackles issues of social connection, staff and domestic student attitudes, communication, engagement with support services, career development and online learning. Stay posted for action to come from this!

All the Best and Stay Safe!

The UCSA congratulates you for making it through 2020, a truly unprecedented year! You have made UC a vibrant and diverse campus and we wish you all the best in your future endeavours.

Even though we have the occasional resurgent case in NZ, we are lucky to have had normality for the past few months. NZ is considered a global leader in the pandemic response; so please remain mentally and physically safe by following the Alert Level rules and keep up to date with UC’s communications regarding COVID-19, which can be found here.

All the best with your studies and enjoy your time at UC!

Noho ora mai,

Derrick Edward
International Representative
2020 UCSA Executive