Here’s the Crew
This year, we decided to sit down and chat with some of them to find out more about them, the work they do and how being part of the UniCrew has helped them.
Gunjan Seony
Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Commerce
How long have you been a UniCrew member?
Since 2020 – so almost 4 years!
What kind of things did you get to do in 2023 and what did you enjoy the most?
We got to help in events such as Orientation and Open Day along with Graduation.
I enjoyed getting to work with the most fabulous team. We honestly get along great with each other, and the most rewarding experience of this role is being part of a team of like-minded individuals who enhance the experience of being part of UniCrew with their own uniqueness.
What does a typical day in the life of a UniCrew member look like?
Usually it depends on the shift – but during our Orientation shifts we usually arrive on campus around 7am, do a quick briefing, get in a workout whilst setting up all the equipment such as tents and flags. Then we get to interact with all the new students on campus, this part of the day is the best, until we begin to wind down and do it all over again the next day!
How has the experience helped you?
I have learnt how to think on my feet and take initiative. We are often required to adapt our tasks based on the requirements of the situation we are in, so this has trained us to think quickly and come up with creative solutions!
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
I have been a part of UniCrew for the past three years and each year the experience is just as fun as the last. It’s a job that barely feels like work. The network of support and encouragement we get within the team and from our managers is immensely comforting.
“The network of support and encouragement we get within the team and from our managers is immensely comforting.”
Jham Magisa
Bachelor of Science – Majoring in Computer Science & Information and Technology Management
How long have you been a UniCrew member?
Since February 2023.
What kind of things did you get to do in 2023?
A lot of things! One of our first significant tasks was helping with Semester One Orientation. This required a lot of lifting and rearrangement, but everything went well without a hitch thanks to our team’s adaptability and willingness to accept additional duties.
We also had a significant impact on the winter and spring Graduation ceremonies, where we were in charge of handing out the graduands’ name tags.
The biggest event I helped with was Open Day. I was tasked to be the Help Desk Captain and this involved managing a group of 20 people assigned to various help desk locations. Even though it was a big task, everyone stepped up and did an outstanding job. We ensured there was smooth communication through messaging apps.
Additionally, I’ve been involved in various other university events such as Matariki and cultural events, as well as assisting with Student Engagement through various small but essential tasks.
What did you enjoy the most?
I’ve really enjoyed getting to know my fellow team members and bonding with them. Our chats, whether during work or after, have always been fun. And let’s not forget Tati – she’s been an awesome manager, always making sure we have a good time while we’re working. She also ensures we are well fed during our big shifts.
I’ve also found it interesting to learn more about how things operate at university events. It’s a lot of hard work, but it has been a privilege to be able to help and make the events run as smoothly as possible.
What does a typical day in the life of a UniCrew member look like?
A typical day at work would be firstly finding the event manager. We then talk, plan and sort out the tasks that we are meant to do. After planning, we go on doing our assigned tasks and make sure that events run as smoothly as they can. Being flexible and being able to adapt to new tasks is a must for a UniCrew member since we have to move around a lot.
How has the experience helped you?
Being a UniCrew has helped me in so many ways! I got to meet new people and gain insightful knowledge from them. I was also able to hone my leadership and communication skills as there is a lot of communication involved when working in UniCrew. I’ve also developed a stronger sense of adaptability, taking on unforeseen tasks with ease as they come up.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
UniCrew handles a lot of behind-the-scenes stuff and we really appreciate the staff for giving props to our hard work. It’s honestly a pretty cool role if you want to get more involved at uni and I’d totally recommend it to anyone.
Joanna Moon
Bachelor of Science majoring in Statistics and Biological Science
How long have you been a UniCrew member?
Almost a year.
What kind of things did you get to do in 2023 and what did you enjoy the most?
Meet new friends, be part of a club, got to experience the in-person campus life!
I enjoyed getting to know new people, especially in the UniCrew team and also getting to connect with a lot of students taking the same paper or going into the same work field as me.
What does a typical day in the life of a UniCrew member look like?
A typical day would be helping students, guiding students around the campus and helping out for the big events.
How has the experience helped you?
It’s allowed me to gain a lot of communication skills, social skills and equipped me to develop a lot of leadership skills.
“It’s allowed me to gain a lot of communication skills, social skills and equipped me to develop a lot of leadership skills. “
Ollie Nel
Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts
How long have you been a UniCrew member?
I’ve been a UniCrew member since the beginning of this year and I plan on continuing next year!
What kind of things did you get to do in 2023 and what did you enjoy the most?
We got to work heaps of fun events such as Orientation and Open Day. We have also had the opportunity to help out at unique shifts such as accommodation, at the Clubs Expo and at the Clubs Awards.
My favourite UniCrew shift this year was probably the Semester Two Orientation because it was super cool to help out the new students and to chat with some academics as well.
What does a typical day in the life of a UniCrew member look like?
We usually start our shifts bright and early with a briefing in which we are given our responsibilities for the day. From there, we have a day full of setting things up, helping people out and solving problems. We then pack everything down at the end of the day and end with a debrief where we discuss what went well and how we could improve. It’s definitely hectic and full-on but it’s a lot of fun and really rewarding to see the events come together.
How has the experience helped you?
UniCrew has definitely helped me gain leadership and problem-solving skills — a lot of our job involves putting out fires (metaphorically, so far!) and so we get heaps of practice.
“I’ve been a UniCrew member since the beginning of this year and I plan on continuing next year! “
Ted Wu
Bachelor of Laws and Property
How long have you been a UniCrew member?
Since the start of this year.
What kind of things did you get to do in 2023 and what did you enjoy the most?
We got the opportunity to set up events, assist new students and help facilitate faculty tasks.
I enjoyed working with such a kind and welcoming team. Tatiane, our leader, cultivates such a warm and social working environment that really elevates our ability to do work to the fullest of our capabilities.
What does a typical day in the life of a UniCrew member look like?
Wake up bright and early and listen to some good music on the way to campus. Once we’re there, we get a quick briefing and start preparing the day for the event ahead, ensuring tables are set up, flags are up and people know where to go. After that, ensure you’re where you’re needed and everything goes smoothly.
After the end of the day, kick back, relax and maybe grab a few drinks with the team!
How has the experience helped you?
UniCrew has helped me gain so much perspective into the university’s organisation, running and inner workings. As someone who always values new experiences, UniCrew has been invaluable. It has offered the opportunity to provide immensely fulfilling work while also staying lighthearted and fun!
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
UniCrew is an awesome experience and I’d recommend everyone give it a shot!
If you see UniCrew at your next event, go say hi! Keep an eye on the website for opportunities to work with the UniCrew in 2024.
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