Huia’s interest in electrical and electronic engineering stems from a connection to his cultural values of manaakitanga.

“Growing up in a kura kaupapa, manaakitanga was the most essential concept we were taught. Manaakitanga is looking after people and helping those who are struggling. This value is also applied to my atua—Ranginui and Papatūānuku —and we were constantly reminded of the importance of looking after the environment.

“I decided to study Electrical and Electronics Engineering because I wanted to focus on renewable energy and assist in reducing the harm of non-renewable energy sources on our planet.”

Upon completing his degree, Huia aims to integrate renewable energy solutions into his community.

“It was always important to me that whatever I ended up studying at university, I would focus my area of work on helping my iwi and marae. It is my goal to introduce renewable energy solutions to my marae, provide better access to new technologies, and organise these projects for my marae. When I finish my degree, I would like to work for companies that focus on renewable energy and eventually work with my marae and hopefully other marae as well.”

Huia's decision to study at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, was driven by the desire to remain connected to his whānau.

“I chose to study at the University because many of my whānau attended Te Herenga Waka. My grandfather, Whatarangi Winiata, was a professor of Accountancy as well. By studying at Victoria University of Wellington, I can stay connected to my whānau.”

The University has provided Huia with invaluable experiences, providing him with a glimpse into real-world applications of electrical and electronic engineering.

“When I was still in kura, the University gave me the privilege of visiting Callaghan Innovation and areas of Kelburn campus with a group of aspiring scientists, while experiencing what it is like staying at a university hall of residence.

“Victoria University of Wellington was also able to work with Infratec to provide a scholarship that I was thankfully awarded. This scholarship also includes a summer internship, which will hopefully give me an insight into the world of electrical and electronics engineering and allow me to work under experienced engineers.”

Mitchell Beserra found his passion for engineering after enjoying physics and calculus in high school. He was keen to continue his studies in a more interactive way.

“I wanted to pursue a career that explored these areas more. However, I wanted something more hands-on. This, along with my passion for computers and electronics, drew my attention to Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

“The programme and University definitely lived up to my expectations. The course has been incredibly interesting, and—despite COVID-19—it’s had a significant amount of hands-on work.”

Originally from the USA, Mitchell was drawn to Wellington’s creative culture.

“Wellington is a unique place for students to study and live. You’ve got access to such a wide range of activities, both at the University and in the city. There is something for almost anyone’s interests and an endless amount of amazing people to meet.”

As well as landing an internship at Aurora Energy, Mitchell has made the most of the opportunities the University has to offer.

“I’ve had the opportunity to participate in an Ultimate Frisbee club and Robotics club. I’ve attended several presentations by industry leaders. I personally met the owner of Eight360, a Wellington tech start-up run by a University alumnus. I worked as a research assistant for a professor, and I’ve met many amazing people.”