Welcome to Vic Connect 2012, Victoria University’s e-newsletter especially for Year 12 and 13 students.
Throughout the year the Vic Connect will keep you up to date with what’s going on at Vic, important dates and deadlines, firsthand accounts of life as a Vic student, hall profiles and articles on living in Wellington. Below you will find information for all secondary students as well as information specifically for either Year 12 or Year 13 students.
This newsletter is for you—so please let us know if there is anything you would like to see included in the next issue.
If you want to discuss your options for studying at Vic then give our Student Recruitment, Admission and Orientation team a call on 0800 VICTORIA or email us at course-advice@vuw.ac.nz.
On this page:
- Join us on Facebook
- Registrations Are Now Open for UN Youth NZ's Premier Model UN Event for High School Students
- Student Profile
- Vic OE - Student Profile
- Hall of Residence Profiles
- Clubs and Sports at Victoria
- Year 13 Links
- Important Dates
- Admission 2013
- School Leaver Scholarships
- Accommodation
- Year 12 Links
- Four Reasons Why Your Year 12 Results Are Important
- Planning Ahead
- Help us test our website and you could score a Vic Uni t-shirt!
Join us on Facebook
Victoria Future Students is a Facebook page set up for secondary school students thinking about studying at Vic. Add us as a friend and our team of Campus Coaches can keep you posted on what life as a Vic student is like. You can also connect with other students from around the country (and the world) thinking about studying at Vic. www.facebook.com/vuwfuturestudents
Registrations Are Now Open For UN Youth NZ’s Premier Model UN Event For High School Students
NZ Model UN is an experience like no other. Simulating the real workings of the UN assembly, high school students are invited to assume the roles of delegates of the UN to seek ways through diplomacy and negotiation to find solutions to global issues, whilst speaking from the viewpoint of the member state they are representing. It is a “hands on” opportunity for students to experience the diplomatic and decision-making processes that guide international relations.
Despite the attempts of the United Nations and many other civil society organisations to stop discrimination it still exists on a large scale worldwide. There is widespread racial, gender and class based discrimination in many societies which is impacting on educational, employment, political and financial opportunities. After much thought on the matter, the organising committee has decided that the theme for NZ Model UN 2012 will be ‘Inequality: Closing the gaps?’ This is a theme relevant to many areas of our everyday lives and a subject which has the potential to spark and inspire change beginning with youth.
Some of the highlights of the conference include debate during committee sessions, social activities (formal dinner and ball) and the outreach programme (where students will be able to go out into the community and actively participate in the issues that they will be discussing during the conference).
NZ Model UN 2012 will be held from 6–9 July at the Kelburn Campus of Victoria University, Wellington.
Although registrations do not close till 6 May, this is one of our most oversubscribed events and registrations will fill up fast. If you are applying after this date please email pasan.jayasinghe@unyouth.org.nz. It is essential that you register as soon as possible. We stress that because of this, any applications submitted must be of a high quality.
Keep up to date with us by connecting via our website, Twitter and Facebook pages:
- http://unyouth.org.nz/
- https://twitter.com/unyouthnz
- http://www.facebook.com/unyouthnz
- You can also contact the committee at nzmodelun@unyouth.org.nz
Student Profile
In each issue of Vic Connect we will profile a different Victoria student at different stages in their study. In this issue we spoke to Sean Brennan, a second-year student studying toward a conjoint degree, a Bachelor of Music/ Bachelor of Laws. We asked Sean about life and study at Vic as well as the Campus Coaches programme – an awesome programme set up to help first-year students meet new people and adjust to life at Victoria.
Sean Brennan
Where are you from?
I'm from Whakatane, a little town in the Bay of Plenty. I attended Whakatane High School for most of my high school life, spending a year at the International School of Brunei in Bandar Seri Begawan for Year 11.
Did you stay in a Hall when you started at Victoria?
For my first year I stayed at Weir House just down the road from the Kelburn Campus and I wouldn't have had it any other way. I would urge first-year students to apply for a Hall of Residence unless they have serious reservations about staying in one (I understand they aren't cheap and many people who live in Wellington will have a preference for staying at home where it’s cheaper!)
Weir House offered spectacular support services and made my first year of uni about the two things it should be—the people you meet and the study you [should]do. Not having to worry about the power bill, internet, cooking meals and a myriad of other things meant you could just spend your time working hard and having a good time (hopefully in that order). Without a doubt the best thing about staying in a hall is the people you meet, and this tends to carry through following years as I'm currently flatting with two other people who were living on the same floor as me.
What do you remember most from your first few weeks at Vic?
Similar to above, what I enjoyed most about my first year may be summed up as being (1); surrounded by like-minded people with a passion for academic success, (2); being introduced to Wellington City and (3); meeting a number of its fantastic inhabitants. The music scene in Wellington was also exceptionally more diverse than what I had been used to. As a music student, the regular number of 'classical' concerts were great, also the DJs in town play everything from dubstep (whether or not you consider it 'music') to trance to ‘Sweet Home Alabama’. Also take time to check out the tastes of those around you—you may find friends or discover bands, composers and artists you typically wouldn't have.
Did you make any changes to your courses in your first year?
During my first year I stuck with the courses I was doing, although I did apply for Law towards the end of the year—I am currently doing a BMus and an LLB. It is key to actually look at the requirements of your degree.
Are you involved in any clubs, sports or leadership programmes?
Rather than being involved in a great number of leadership roles and whatnot in my first year, as I had at high school, I focused on my study and social life (not to say that is what everyone should do). I was, however, involved in the Campus Coaches programme. I was initially involved as a first year embarking upon my studies at Vic knowing nothing and no one. The hall I was in (Weir House) advised I take part in the programme and I'm 100% glad I did! I was paired with a Campus Coach who was a fourth-year student in my area of study and I found her an indispensable resource in finding my way—from figuring out grading systems, understanding my course material, working out where services are—as well as the seemingly simple things like where to go for that first week of busy lectures.
Towards the end of my first year I received an email from Victoria University asking if I would like to apply to be a Campus Coach. Knowing how useful mine had been I jumped at the chance and haven't looked back since. The programme this year had around 1,500 first years taking part with 136 Campus Coaches, which is great progress since it started in 2007. The overall feedback has been positive as it has been for the last five years, and students are definitely getting the help which the programme aims to supply.
That is all awesome—just to finish off, what is your favourite quote that you would pass along to students thinking about studying at Vic?
"Common sense is not so common"—Voltaire
Vic OE – Student Profile
A Victoria Overseas Exchange (Vic OE) is your opportunity to study and travel overseas. You will earn credit towards your Victoria degree while studying a trimester or a full year at one of our 100 plus partner universities. Vic OE students pay their usual Victoria fees and can receive any StudyLink loans and allowances as well as a grant of up to $2,000 to help finance their trip.
In each issue of the Vic Connect we will profile a different student who has just returned from a Vic OE. For more Vic OE information check out the World Wise newsletter.
Sandra Ivanov, third-year BA student
In August 2011, my journey into the unknown began, with my university exchange from Victoria University in Wellington to Royal Holloway University of London.
I explored Europe’s wonders for nearly seven months travelling to places like Serbia, France and Germany—just to name a few. The university was located in a beautiful rural town a short distance from central London and the campus is famous for its 19th Century architecture, Founders Building and the forestry and fairy-tale fauna that surround it.
My three months there went by quickly, London providing new excitements with every visit, with no need to leave the city to find adventure. The university culture in England allowed me to become more involved in extracurricular activities by joining clubs and societies. I was engaged in badminton, subject-related clubs, and even participated in a sit-in protest. I travelled with my university dance teams for competitions to places such as Leicester, Nottingham and Warwick. I also took the mandatory trip to Liverpool to follow the footsteps of the Beatles legacy and was thrilled to sing at the legendary Cavern Club with my friends.
Overall, my exchange was an amazing journey of self-growth. It boosted my confidence and changed my outlook on study and people. I made the most amazing friends through living in halls and being involved as much as I could. I have seen breath-taking sights but also experienced challenging situations while travelling around different countries and adapting to other cultures.
The exchange has made me more capable to deal with all sorts of circumstances that unexpectedly occur without the help of others close to me.I can’t wait to go on another one!
Hall of Residence Profiles
Finding the right place to live in Wellington can be as important as choosing the right course of study. Victoria provides accommodation options for students in 15 Halls of Residence, from single rooms to your own apartment—or something in between. Some halls are fully-catered, while others have kitchens for self-catering.
Most school leavers from outside Wellington (and some from Wellington) will stay in a fully catered Hall of Residence for their first year. Living in a hall is an awesome way to meet new people from all around New Zealand (and the world) while benefitting from the academic help, care and support hall life offers.
In each issue of the Vic Connect we will profile three Halls of Residence, to view information on all halls visit our accommodation website.
Victoria House
Located just five minutes from Kelburn Campus, Victoria House provides a strong community and academic focus for first-year students to fulfil their study and personal goals and develop communal living skills.
Cost per week:
Single room—$305, twin-share—$215
(2012 fees, may vary for 2013).
Total residents:
185 students
Suitable for:
First-years and returning Victoria House students.
Meals:
Three meals a day with vegetarian and meat options at lunch and dinner. Packed lunches and late dinners can also be arranged.
Internet:
Wireless internet is available hall-wide and is included in the cost.
Support:
Residential Assistants provide academic help, care and support. Study groups and floor events are also arranged.
Facilities:
Two pianos, music room, workshop and projects room, TV lounges with Sky, study lounges, bike storage and laundry area.
Parking:
Covered and outdoor parking available for a limited number of cars.
Helen Lowry Hall
Helen Lowry is a small and friendly traditional hall with a strong caring community that values academic success. It is situated in Karori, 4km from Kelburn Campus and runs a free shuttle service throughout the day.
Cost per week:
Single room—$218, twin-share—$175
(2012 fees, may vary for 2013).
Total residents:
124 students.
Suitable for:
First-years and returning Helen Lowry students.
Meals:
Three meals a day with vegetarian and special diet options available. Dining room is open 24 hours a day with hot drinks and bread provided.
Internet:
Broadband and wireless internet is available hall-wide at students’ expense. Computer suite available with free internet.
Support:
Residential Assistants provide academic help, care and support. Study groups and floor events are also arranged.
Facilities:
TV lounges, gym, music room, computer suite, free photocopier, games room, bike storage and laundry areas.
Parking:
15 free off-street car parks plus bike storage.
Joan Stevens Hall
A first-year hall in the central city, Joan Stevens is committed to developing a culture that encourages involvement, responsibility and achievement. It opened for the first time in February 2011 and is a ten-minute walk from Kelburn Campus.
Cost per week:
Single room—$313
(2012 fees, may vary for 2013).
Total residents:
242 students.
Suitable for:
First-years only.
Meals:
Three meals a day from Monday to Friday, brunch and dinner on weekends. Vegetarian options, late dinners and packed lunches can also be arranged.
Internet:
Wireless internet is available hall-wide and usage is through the University.
Support:
Residential Assistants provide academic help, care and support. Study groups and floor events are also arranged.
Facilities:
Sky lounge, music room with piano, architecture and design space, table tennis, gaming consoles, bike storage and laundry areas.
Parking:
Secured private car park area available at cost.
For more information see the Accommodation website.
Clubs and Sports at Victoria
Recreation Services—Victoria’s home of sport and recreation—presents yet another great reason to come and study at Victoria University. With an excellent range of fitness, sporting, and recreational spaces across a number of the campuses, some students find themselves a second home!
When you decide you need a break from study, Recreation Services have loads you can get involved in including;
- the annual VUW Dodgeball tournament
- netball, football, basketball, volleyball, and ‘futsal’ sports leagues
- group exercise classes including Zumba, yoga, and swissball
- activities such as ski trips, cooking classes, paddle boarding, and kayaking.
The qualified friendly staff are there full time to provide students at Victoria with all of these opportunities and tons more!
Look out for the Clubs and Sports at Victoria section of the next Vic Connect for profiles of some of our sports teams and clubs.
Year 13 Links
Important Dates
| 2012 Important Dates | |
|---|---|
| June | Accommodation Guide available. |
| July | Guide to Study available. |
| 1 August | Halls of Residence applications open for 2013. |
| 31 August | Study at Vic Open Day. |
| 1 October | Online enrolment opens. Halls of Residence applications due. Victoria Excellence and Achiever Scholarship applications due. |
| 30 October | Application deadline for courses in 2012/13 Trimester 3. |
| 19 November–7 December | Course Planning Weeks for first-year students. |
| 1 December | International students’ first-year applications due for February 2013 study. |
| 10 December | Application due date for study in 2013. |
| 2013 Important Dates | |
|---|---|
| 25 February–1 March | New Students’ Orientation Week. |
| 4 March | First trimester begins. |
| 15 July | Second trimester begins. |
| 19 November | Summer trimester begins. |
Admission 2013
To be guaranteed a place at Victoria University you will need to:
- achieve University Entrance
- achieve the Guaranteed Entry score, but please note that the GES for 2013 has not yet been set
- fulfil any other degree-specific requirements (eg. performance audition)
- apply by the application deadline of 10 December 2012 for study in 2013.
If you are applying through Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) for further details.
If you are applying through International Baccalaureate (IB) for further details.
If you are thinking of applying through Discretionary Entrance (entry straight from Year 12 or after an exchange).
Admission information is also available on pages 14–17 of the Introduction to Victoria 2013. If you haven’t yet received a copy of this please feel free to contact us on 0800 VICTORIA (option 2) to be sent a copy. Further details will be available in publications later in the year as well as the next issue of Vic Connect.
If you are concerned or have questions about any of the above please feel free to contact us on 0800 VICTORIA option 2 or by email to course-advice@vuw.ac.nz.
School Leaver Scholarships
The purpose of the Victoria School Leaver Scholarships is to encourage academically-able students to study and be supported in their studies at Victoria University. Applications for these scholarships are due by 1 October 2012.
Successful applicants will also be guaranteed an offer of a place in a Hall of Residence, provided an accommodation application is received by the due date of 1 October 2012.
There are two main scholarships: the Victoria Excellence Scholarship and the Victoria Achiever Scholarship.
Victoria Excellence Scholarship
The majority of these scholarships will be awarded at $5,000 with a small number awarded at $10,000. These scholarships may be put towards fees or accommodation in the first year of study. To apply for this scholarship you will need to have your Level 2 Certificate endorsed with Excellence (or equivalent). This endorsement must have been made in Year 12. Consideration may be given for some Victoria Excellence Scholarships to be extended beyond the first year, on the basis of academic merit in first year of study.
Victoria Achiever Scholarship
A small number of these scholarships will be awarded at $10,000 with the remainder awarded at $5,000. The money can be put towards fees or accommodation in the first year of study. To apply for this scholarship you will need to have your Level 2 Certificate endorsed with Merit (or equivalent) as well as fitting into one or more of the following categories: Maori students, Pacific students, students with disabilities, students educated at a decile 1 to 3 secondary school or students who can demonstrate financial hardship. Consideration may be given for some Victoria Achiever Scholarships to be extended beyond the first year, on the basis of academic merit in the first year of study.
Further information on these scholarships can be found on page 23 of the Introduction to Victoria 2013 as well as on our website. Information on other scholarships available can be found at both www.victoria.ac.nz/scholarships and www.breakout.org.nz.
Accommodation
Choosing where you live in Wellington can be just as important as choosing what to study. If you are moving to Wellington then, chances are, you will be applying to one of our 15 Halls of Residence. At Victoria our Halls of Residence are coordinated through our Accommodation Services team. Staying in a Hall provides a great transition from living at home to living on your own. Most first-year halls are fully catered which means all your meals heating and electricity are paid in one payment.
If you are thinking of applying for a Hall of Residence you will need to apply online between 1 August and 1 October. If you have your NCEA Level 2 Certificate Endorsed with Merit or Excellence you will be guaranteed a place in a hall. There will be more information on the application process in the next issue of Vic Connect.
Staying in a Hall isn’t for everyone and in Wellington there are plenty of opportunities to live privately in a flat or even a homestay. Most students who live in Wellington will choose to stay at home with their family in their first year while others will choose to stay in a Hall of Residence or move into a flat. What you choose to do is completely up to you.
For more information on accommodation Accommodation Services website or, to view the profile of three of our Halls in this issue of Vic Connect.
Year 12 Links
Four Reasons Why Your Year 12 Results Are Important
1. Scholarships
Year 12 results are really important for Victoria's School Leaver Scholarships, awarded to first-year students, so you'll want to work as hard as you can this year if you are going to apply for one of these.
There are two main scholarships available for school leavers: the Victoria Excellence Scholarships and the Victoria Achiever Scholarships. Both are worth $5,000 and are awarded based on Level 2 results (as University applications close before Level 3 results become available). The money can go towards your course fees—it is equivalent to the fees for most first-year programmes—or can be put towards accommodation at Victoria.
To apply for a Victoria Excellence Scholarship, you will need to achieve NCEA Level 2 endorsed with Excellence. If you have an equivalent level of achievement in another qualification you may also apply.
The Victoria Achiever Scholarships support under-represented groups at Victoria—Maori and Pacific students, students with disabilities or those from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds—to achieve academically. To apply you will need NCEA Level 2 endorsed with Merit, or the equivalent.
There are many other scholarships available. For more information on these see our website or email scholarships-office@vuw.ac.nz.
2. Hall of residence applications
When you apply for Victoria’s Halls of Residence you will be asked to provide details of your Year 12 results. While other areas such as extracurricular activities, sports and statements from you and your school are also important, students endorsed with Merit or Excellence are in a better position to be accepted into the hall of their choice. If you have your Level 2 endorsed with Excellence (or equivalent), you are guaranteed an offer of a place in one of our halls.
3. Exam and essay writing practice
Year 12 provides a great opportunity to improve your essay-writing skills before you get to Year 13 and university. Once at university, you will be challenged to consistently produce a high standard of writing, and this is why we recommend you take at least one ‘essay-rich’ subject such as English or History all the way through to Level 3.
4. Entry into Level 3 University Entrance approved subjects
To be guaranteed entry into Victoria University, you will need to achieve our Guaranteed Entry Score. Since this can only be based on Level 3 University approved subjects, it is really important that you are taking at least 4 of these in Year 13. So, you will want to do well in your Level 2 subjects to make sure that you can move though to Level 3. For a list of approved subjects visit our website.
Planning Ahead
If you are already thinking about what you might like to study at Victoria, have a look at our planning ahead sheet. It will guide you through recommended subjects to best prepare you for specific degree programmes at Victoria. If you have any queries about these, as always you can contact our team for help.
If you are unsure about what you want to study at university and want to keep your options as open as possible, it is always a good idea to continue with sciences in Year 12 and 13, especially Physics and Chemistry, which can be harder to pick up again at university. Mathematics is also a good one to continue with, particularly Calculus if you can manage it. No matter what you end up doing later, continuing with at least one essay-rich subject, such as English, is really important.
Remember that you can always contact our course advice team if you have any questions at all at course-advice@vuw.ac.nz.
Help us test our website and you could score a Vic Uni t-shirt!
We’re looking for people to test our website, online and in person. When you sign up before May 18 you’ll go in the draw to win one of five Vic Uni T-shirts.
Sign up today! (If you change your mind, you can remove yourself from the list at any time.)
