Support for students, from students

Your welfare is important to us and we work hard to make sure you feel supported, both during and after your studies. We have several systems in place to enable you to reach your potential and these all involve student-to-student support and advice. This strengthens our School community as students pass their knowledge on to each other and also offers you the chance to step into these roles to gain support experience. 

Mentoring

If you are a new student studying the Bachelor of Social Services, you will receive mentoring support from second-year students. These students will have recently completed the first year of the Bachelor’s and will be able to answer any questions you may have, both about the programme and about life at Otago Polytechnic in general. Mentors are usually responsible for about three to four students.

One-on-one academic support

Third year Bachelor students are employed as tutors to provide support if you require academic assistance. These tutors are trained through the Learning Centre and will offer you one-on-one guidance.

Graduate tutors

Once you have graduated from the Bachelor of Social Services, there may be the chance for you to work within the School as we offer the chance to complete a ten month paid internship as a tutorial assistant. Tutorial assistants offer help and support to current Bachelor of Social Services, Certificate in Human Services and Certificate in Health students. They are present in class and also run additional tutorials for anyone who would like extra help and guidance.

Student-run careers service

We are currently in the process of setting up a student-run career service. Second and third-year Careers students will have the chance to offer career support and advice to all Otago Polytechnic students. This exciting opportunity will enable you to gain industry-relevant and real-life work experience by assisting fellow students with a range of scenarios. This could include helping people seek employment, prepare CV's or working with them to determine if they are enrolled in the correct programme for their needs. You will be fully supported during this process to help you provide a professional service.