The past does not determine the future - build a network of support

To be a successful postgraduate learner it will help to feel as comfortable as possible studying in a university setting.  It can feel overwhelming coming into such a big environment where you may not know anyone.

How you feel about study can be affected by past experiences at school or university - whether they were positive or less positive.  Sometimes learning can be affected by learning difficulties or disabilities that may go unacknowledged.

If you are concerned about any learning difficulties you may have experienced in the past, there are many avenues of support at The University of Auckland.  

Start by contacting Te Fale Pouāwhina.  They are a team of supportive advisors who offer a professional service based on kaupapa Māori and Pacific principles in the Tā te Ākonga/Student Learning Services team.

If English is a second or other language for you, it will be important to contact the English Language Enrichment (ELE) team before applying to your chosen programme. 

You can watch the following 2 minute video by Tina - a former postgraduate School of Nursing student who shares her experiences and tips for success when begining your postgraduate study. 

English Language Enrichment (ELE)

If English is a second or other language for you, it is important for you to contact the English Language Enrichment Team (ELE Team) early on in your study.

The ELE team on campus provides a space, and support, for any University of Auckland student or staff member to develop their English language skills.  You can use English language resources (DVDs, CDs, digital recordings, magazines, newspapers and books), get advice about your English (whatever your subject area), and participate in language learning groups. 

English Language Enrichment (ELE) Team Contact Details
	Phone an English Language Advisor +64 9 373 7599 Ext. 82134
	Email an English Language Advisor Contact an ELE Advisor if you think you may need English writing, speaking, listening or reading support. Email: ele.sls@auckland.ac.nz Website: http://www.library.auckland.ac.nz/ele
	Visit ELE Team in Auckland: Visit ELE on level 1 of the Kate Edger Information Commons building (opposite The University Bookshop).  Check the opening hours of the ELE centre. 2 Alfred Street, Level 1 Information Commons building Room 101

If you know you have a specific, identified learning disability, or you are concerned that you may have significant barriers to being successful in your postgrad study, it would be good to get in touch with our supportive Student Disability Services Team.

You can visit the University of Auckland's main "Student Disability Services" for key information about ways we can support you in your study if you are a student with a disability or learning disability.

The Learning Disabilities Programme

You can visit the University of Auckland's Libraries and Learning website page for "Learning disabilities students". Here you can learn more about the Learning Disabilities Programme run through the Equity Office.

This programme provides learning assessments, recommendations for special exam conditions and academic development opportunities to University of Auckland students.

Student Disability Services Contact Details

	Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 82936 If you are accepted into the programme, you will be assigned a Learning Advisor who will support you through the Student Learning Services centre - Tā te Ākonga.
	Website: Visit the Disability Services website to find out about eligibility and how you can access this service.

Equity Office Contact Details

The Equity Office are committed to providing equal educational opportunities to all students who have the potential to succeed in a university of high international standing - and we will do everything we can to help you succeed.

	Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 82936
	Email: disability@auckland.ac.nz
	Visit us at the Physical Address: The ClockTower, Room 036, Basement Level 22 Princes St., Auckland

 

If you have experienced any learning challenges in the past with formal study, it will be important for you to contact the Tā te Ākonga/Student Learning Services (SLS) Team to find out how they can support you with your future study goals.

Successful students - regardless of whether they have any identified learning challenges or needs - also contact the SLS team early on to find out about workshops and networks of support available to all postgraduate students, regardless of their previous experience with study.  The SLS Team is here to support all learners in our university as they navigate different stages in their journey - especially around assessment tasks and assignments.  

Make sure you get in touch early on, rather than the night before an assignment is due so they can support you effectively. 

You can watch the following 1 minute video by Fila - a postgraduate School of Population Health student who shares how useful the library workshops led by SLS and Librarian team members are.

Where to go for other information

For more information about postgraduate programme options, you can visit the University's Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences Postgraduate study option webpages which provide detail about Postgraduate programmes along with a prospectus (guide book) that you can download.

Or, you can vsit the FMHS Postgraduate Programes site in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences or Contact the FMHS Postgraduate Student Centre Team to speak with someone by phone or arrange a face-to-face or Skype meeting.

For learners with learning disabilities - support is here for you

Did you know that if you have a disability or learning disability, you may be entitled to special exam conditions, special support and/or special scholarships?

You may find it helpful to read the brochure "Scholarships and awards for students with disabilities" to learn about financial support that may be available to you in your postgrad study.