2010 Student Profile
MORGAN APERAHAMA
Iwi: Ngati Maniapoto/Ngati Tuwharetoa |
| Degree: |
BA(Hons) (Screen and Media Studies) |
| Former Secondary School: Wairapa College |
| Career Aspirations: To work in the film industry |
 Once Morgan Aperahama decided to study at Waikato University, there was no changing her mind.
Moving away from friends and family in Masterton meant it was not a small decision - but Morgan is sure it was the best choice she could have made.
"I chose to study at the University of Waikato because I heard really good things about their media department and as that was one of the subjects I was interested in, I decided to go where I could learn from the best.
"Although a couple of my friends tried to convince me to go where they were going, I was set on coming up here, and even though I knew no one else it still felt like the right decision."
Morgan is studying for her Honours degree in Screen and Media Studies, after finishing her BA in Screen and Media Studies and English, two subjects she developed a passion for in high-school.
Study has brought her more than intellectual satisfaction, Morgan says.
"My degree has brought me a great job at the University, which I really enjoy. It has also brought me heaps of new friends, who also share the same interests as me, and I feel it has given me a great opportunity to explore a range of jobs. If I try something and do not like it, I can always pursue other avenues. Not many other degrees allow for this kind of diversity."
Morgan's job at Waikato is that of kaiawhina - supporting other Māori students with their university studies.
"In this role I spend a lot of time emailing the students and helping out with events that may be going on, as well as talking to students face to face if they drop by during my office hours. It's a job that suits my student lifestyle, as it works around my timetable, which is really important.
"My most positive experiences at the University have been in relation to the people I have met. I have made a number of friends in class as well as outside of Uni. Many of them will most likely be lifelong acquaintances and have made my whole experience here a lot better.
"My studies have also been a big positive, as I love what I do and learn heaps more every year, which is mainly due to the lecturers I have had. The university has really good lecturers, who are friendly, helpful and know their stuff.
"All in all the University of Waikato is a great place to study: go for it."
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