Pareura Katoa (PJ)
Physical Training Instructor, New Zealand Defence Force
Graduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise
He decided to take on the Graduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise to gain new knowledge for his career, says Pareura Katoa (PJ) who is a physical training instructor for the New Zealand Defence Force.
“As a senior physical training instructor in the New Zealand Defence Force, I had completed most formal military courses available to my specific trade. Although this training and experience produces sharp practitioners, I believed that there is a knowledge gap to bridge to keep up with industry leaders.
“I signed up to the AUT Graduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise to expand my knowledge of strength and conditioning, and share this knowledge with my colleagues. I chose AUT for my studies because it is internationally recognised for excellence in sport and exercise.”
Tailored to his interests and career
Being able to choose courses related to his work and his interest was one of the highlights of his studies, says PJ.
“I particularly enjoyed working on my special topic, as it involved researching the history of AUT and military training, which enabled me to understand the why, how and ‘where to next’.”
He could see other military trainers also benefitting from the Graduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise.
“My lecturer, Kevin Sheehy, planted the idea of utilising AUT as a professional development pathway for military trainers. I 100% agree with this after experiencing it myself. I’m now more equipped to provide efficient and effective exercise prescription and analysis to our soldiers.”
Advice for other students
PJ, who graduated from AUT in mid-2022, has some great advice for other students considering taking up university study.
“If you want to retain information, ask why, why and why.”
He wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Graduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise to others.
“Of course I’d recommend this programme. You have the flexibility to study while continuing to work, and I found the information I learned during my studies often had an immediate impact on my daily work outputs.”
