Meet your UniGuides
UniGuides are a dedicated team of student mentors who make the journey from high school to University fun and exciting. From sharing their own experiences to organising social events on campus, the UniGuides team knows how to have a good time, all while making a difference.
We heard from three students who shared their stories with us. Read on to find out more.
Adam Wong-Toi
What are you studying, Adam?
Bachelor of Science conjoint with Bachelor of Arts majoring in Chemistry and Statistics.
How long have you been in the UniGuide programme?
I’ve been part of the UniGuide programme since the start of 2023.
What got you to join the programme?
I joined the UniGuide programme to be able to give back to the University community. I thought that it would be a fantastic experience to not only challenge myself personally but impart knowledge to all the new students, show them the campus and help them transition into their university life. It is such a big step from high school to university, and I wanted to help bridge that gap to make everyone’s first few weeks much more enjoyable.
Tell us how you think the UniGuide programme helps students at the University of Auckland.
The programme helps to be that mentor and guide from students’ first steps on campus through their first semester of studies. The UniGuide programme is there as a familiar face for advice, information and a platform to interact with many other first-year students. The events and ongoing connections throughout the semester help to provide consistency in what can otherwise be a very daunting time for people!
What’s been your favourite part of the experience?
My favourite part of the experience has been all the amazing people that I met along the way, from my fellow UniGuides, the extremely hard-working UniGuide Leaders, all the way to the new students. Everyone has such a unique story that was so interesting to hear about and I enjoyed being able to share my stories with them too!
Would you recommend becoming a UniGuide?
I would 100% recommend becoming a UniGuide! The experiences and connections you make are incredible. Plus, you can use the volunteering towards the Co-curricular Recognition Programme as a reward for the hours you put in!
I would 100% recommend becoming a UniGuide! The experiences and connections you make are incredible.
Lester Salvador
What are you studying, Lester?
Bachelor of Science (Psychology) – final year!
How long have you been in the UniGuide programme?
I have been in the programme for both Semesters One and Two for 2023.
What got you to join the programme?
I saw this volunteering opportunity for UniGuides one day and it intrigued me. I thought to myself that this would be a great opportunity to get involved with university life and get to know new people. I have no regrets joining and it helped me become less nervous talking to and being around new people.
Tell us how you think the UniGuide programme helps students at the University of Auckland.
I think one thing UniGuides really helps to do is make university life more than just studying. The events throughout the year give you a breather to have fun and make new friends. Moments like these make the time you have at uni better.
What’s been your favourite part of the experience?
The connections I’ve made with not only the first-year students but also the other UniGuides and UniGuide Leaders. It makes you feel like you are a part of a big family and they become your friends outside of the programme. Whether it’s taking part in the events or seeing them on campus, it has made the experience extremely memorable.
“I have no regrets joining and it helped me become less nervous talking to and being around new people.”
Michael Fray
What are you studying, Michael?
Civil Engineering.
How long have you been in the UniGuide programme?
I first became a UniGuide in 2021 when I was in my second year of study. I signed up to be a UniGuide in 2022 as well, but in the end, I wasn’t able to participate due to a clash with another commitment. I was very keen to return to the programme this year though!
What got you to join the programme?
I was eager to get more involved in the University community and meet like-minded peers from different faculties. The UniGuide programme’s aim to welcome new students and demystify the elements of university life resonated with me. It seemed like a fun way to make a positive difference.
Tell us how you think the UniGuide programme helps students at the University of Auckland.
Looking back on my own experience as a first-year student, I felt that Orientation and the UniGuide programme really helped with the transition from high school and gave me a proper introduction to studying at the University of Auckland. The program also really helps the UniGuides develop their leadership and communication skills too!
What’s been your favourite part of the experience?
Being part of a passionate team of UniGuides with a shared goal of welcoming new students. The atmosphere has been very positive at the events, Orientation days and training sessions. The team spirit was strong and it was clear that everyone genuinely wanted to help new students transition well into university life. The experience was very satisfying, and being surrounded by like-minded, sincere peers made it all the more enjoyable.
“The team spirit was strong and it was clear that everyone genuinely wanted to help new students transition well into university life. “
Keen to join the UniGuides in 2024 and become a fellow legend like Adam, Lester and Michael? Applications are now open for Semester One Orientation.
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