Kate Logan

The opportunity to study where the classes aren't too big and the campus is not too far from home but far enough saw Kate Logan enrol at the University of Waikato.

The 20-year-old is studying for Bachelor of Science with Honours, having majored in molecular and cellular biology and minored in ecology biodiversity and sociology.

Moving from Papakura, where she was head girl at Rosehill College, it was at high school where her interest in science was sparked.

"I nearly didn’t take biology to start with, and then my teachers were awesome, so I just wanted to keep doing it. And then here [at Waikato] there’s so many options."

Kate’s enthusiasm for study continues she is looking at doing her PhD and then possibly moving into a teaching role.

I really enjoy going to class, and every lecture, and then going to the labs and doing something which relates to the lectures. Every single time I am like, this is awesome.

Kate has embraced the full university lifestyle, having started off in the halls before becoming a Resident Assistant (RA) in her second year.

Last year she was part of the rowing team. She also fits in Water Polo with the Waikato club; the sport is in her DNA with her grandparents having started the first South Auckland club.

Juggling her calendar doesn’t end there – amongst her studies and sporting endeavours Kate has also worked for Accessibility Services, as a lab demonstrator and as a swimming teacher. One of the most valuable lessons Kate has learnt during her time on campus has been the ability to interact with others.

“I was never necessarily shy, but I struggled just to talk to someone I didn’t know. But in class, lab or halls you meet people and you’re telling them about yourself within a couple of days.”

She offers a bit of advice that has come via her mum. "When you give something a go, options open up that you had no idea about, so pursue the things you enjoy even if you don't know where they will take you. Chances are, you'll end up somewhere cool."