Joni Watson

“The University of Auckland is ranked the best university in New Zealand for both Linguistics and Computer Science, so it felt like the perfect place to pursue my interests in both fields. There are also heaps of student clubs and events, so it’s easy to meet new people and explore different interests beyond study.

“The Bachelor of Arts encourages critical thinking, empathy and a global mindset which are qualities you don’t always get from more narrowly focused degrees. In Linguistics especially, you are constantly exposed to different cultures and language experiences, which broadens your worldview. It helps you understand people better – how they think, how they speak, and why it matters.

“I chose Linguistics because I loved language learning in high school and became fascinated by how languages work – not just in terms of grammar and vocabulary, but as systems that reflect culture, identity, and society. I wanted to understand how language changes over time and how it shapes the way we see the world. Studying Linguistics opens up a much more thoughtful perspective of others and the world around us.

“Linguistics allows us to uncover the ‘code’ behind how we think and communicate. It’s not just about words, but how we express identity, how cultures interact, and how meaning is constructed. After studying linguistics, you’ll never speak, listen, or even text the same way again! You notice patterns, assumptions, and subtle cues everywhere.

“There are so many niches in Linguistics, such as an interest in dialects, historical linguistics, or semantics. I particularly love grammar and syntax, and how languages are governed by innate structures and rules that speakers constantly bend and reshape. I love learning about how these rules are broken by speakers and this shifts the way language develops over time! One of my favourite papers is LINGUIST 203, which delves deep into the English language.

“Linguistics has taught me to navigate language differently and how to interpret it in a more thoughtful, analytical way. I’ve developed communication, data analysis and pattern recognition skills that will benefit me in any career. More importantly, I’ve learned how to listen more closely and think more deeply about the words people use.

“There’s a real sense of community in the Linguistics department. It’s a relatively small programme, so you get to know your classmates and lecturers really well. It’s encouraging to be surrounded by passionate people who are just as excited to learn as you are.

“I love that Computer Science gives me the practical tools to work in tech, while Linguistics sharpens my understanding of human communication and cognitive patterns. In many ways, they complement each other perfectly – coding is a kind of language too, after all. Both fields involve structure, logic, and patterns, but Linguistics brings in the human element. I get the best of both worlds: coding development skills and insight into how people actually use language.

“I’m especially interested in the intersection between technology and human interaction. In a dream world, I’d love to work in computational linguistics, or natural language processing, such as speech recognition. Alternatively, I'm also interested in working with children and pursuing speech therapy. Everyone deserves to be able to express themselves clearly and confidently, without barriers.

“One of my highlights about the student lifestyle at the University of Auckland is the myriad of clubs you can join. The clubs have been a cornerstone to my time at university, and is where I’ve made most of my connections, explored different interests, and had some of my most rewarding university experiences. This year, I am the secretary of AURAC (Auckland Universities Rock Climbing Club)! It’s full of chill, welcoming people, and we get a lot of international students, so it’s a great space to meet others from all over the world. I love adventure, and our outdoor climbing trips are always exciting.

“As someone with a multitude of interests, I’d tell myself not to stress about finding the ‘perfect’ degree that ticks every single box. If you’re overwhelmed and unsure, choose something that truly interests you as well as teach you applicable real-world skills. Then, you can take these skills and experiences with you, no matter which career you end up pursuing. University is about learning how to think and adapt, and that’s something you’ll take with you for life, no matter the job title.

“The Bachelor of Arts is a degree that teaches you how to think, communicate and engage with the world in a thoughtful, adaptable way. It’s not just about memorising content or answering questions, it’s about learning to analyse systems like language, culture and society, and apply that knowledge to real-world problems. A Bachelor of Arts is what you make of it, and it can take you in so many directions.”