Rachel Simpson
Rachel is studying a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws and is part of the news team at 95bFM.
Key facts
Programme: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws
Majors: Politics and International Relations, Art History
"University is quite different to high school in that you might be on campus from 9am-9pm, not necessarily just in class or studying but also spending time with friends and joining groups. Uni starts to feel much more like home than high school does.
"I joined the news team at 95bFM radio. I was sort of roped into it but I’m glad I was. There’s so much value in just learning to talk to people. Every week I get to interview government ministers and CEOs over the phone.
"Even when I don’t agree with their opinions, it's my job to listen, ask questions, and let them say what they have to say. bFM is is full of extremely smart people who really want to challenge the way stories are told on radio.
"I love the tutorials. It’s a much more relaxed environment than high school. The tutors facilitate discussion in a way that means nobody is judged. People feel comfortable voicing their opinions and challenging ideas. You meet all sorts of characters!
Do what feels right to YOU. You are the one sitting those courses and doing those exams.
"Once I got to university I realised there are so many jobs out there that you don't hear about in high school. You don’t have to be a corporate lawyer or a doctor. You don't have to follow anyone else’s path to be successful.
"I think the magic of doing a BA is that it gives you the skills to really properly process the world. It will give you a much clearer view on the past and the present, and will help you evaluate decisions in your own life and career."
Rachel is a recipient of NCEA Scholarships in Art History and English. Rachel was also accepted into the Arts Scholars programme.