Willow Harper
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Health Science in Perioperative Practice
Diploma in Applied Science
Becoming a qualified anaesthetic technician is the right pathway for her, says Willow Harper who came to AUT to study a Diploma in Applied Science and is now enrolled in a Bachelor of Health Science in Perioperative Practice.
“In 2021, I completed a Diploma in Applied Science, and after completing the one-year diploma I started to look into further study options. I knew I loved science and I wanted to work in the healthcare profession. Once I did more research, I came across the Bachelor of Health Science in Perioperative Practice. I started looking into what an anaesthetic technician is, and knew this was what I wanted to study.”
She would 100% recommend this programme to others.
“Not only is the job extremely rewarding, it’s also in very high demand. There’s a nationwide shortage of anaesthetic technicians, so there are always employment opportunities. I’ve particularly loved my clinical placements! I personally learn best by working hands on, so being able to go on clinical placements in my first year of uni was really exciting.”
The right choice
Deciding to come to AUT for her studies was easy, says Willow who is originally from the Kapiti Coast.
“Since I was little, I knew I wanted to move to Auckland. When I was looking into my university study options, I chose AUT after looking into all the science programmes. AUT offers a lot of science courses, and that is what initially attracted me to the university. I liked that I had the option of many different pathways.”
She says she loves the culture at AUT.
“Everyone I’ve met on campus was extremely kind and so eager to learn. It has been a great environment to be a part of. Some of my classes were quite small, which I found really nice. A smaller class makes it a lot easier to talk to my classmates, or to put my hand up and ask a question. I’ve also found that the staff at AUT are amazing. They’re extremely encouraging.”
Advice for other students
Willow has some great advice for other students who are thinking about university study.
“If I could give any advice to future students, it would definitely be to plan. Find a way that works best for you. For me, it was having a monthly, weekly and daily planner of everything I needed to get done. I’ve found this to be really rewarding every time I got to tick something off.
Ask for help if you need it, she adds.
“My other piece of advice would be to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to put your hand up. The biggest challenge when transitioning from high school to university is definitely taking responsibility. AUT lecturers are extremely helpful and resourceful, but you have to take the initiative. No one will know you need help unless you ask for it.”
