Adia Kaletla

"In high school, I first experienced business through activities like Market Day, where we had to develop a product, market it, and actually sell it.  It gave me a glimpse into how creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork can all come together in something tangible.

"I couldn’t attend the Auckland Open Day in person, but I did attend the Wellington information evening. Talking to the UoA staff and student ambassadors honestly sold me. They were so enthusiastic and genuine.  It felt like a community that really wanted its students to succeed. Everyone I spoke to said the same thing: that the Business School gives you heaps of opportunities if you’re willing to grab them."
 

"When I first applied in Year 13, I had no clue what I wanted to do. I just knew I liked writing, I was creative, and I enjoyed understanding people. Marketing and Management seemed like a natural fit. I also loved the reassurance that you don’t have to have everything figured out in your first year, that you get to experiment and discover what you actually enjoy.

"That’s exactly what happened. The first-year core courses give you a little taste of every major, and it completely opened my eyes. I hadn’t really considered Information Systems or Business Analytics before. Then I took an Information Systems course, and it changed my perspective. It was hands-on, practical, and I loved how it combined technology and problem-solving with business strategy. I remember thinking, “Oh, this is what I’ve been looking for.” So I ended up switching from Management to Business Analytics."
 

"My experience at the Business School has been incredible. I’ve genuinely enjoyed my courses, but also the environment: the people, the energy, the support. The first year, especially, is packed with support systems that help you adjust. Beyond the lecturers, there are tutorials, extra workshops, and Teaching Assistants (TAs) who are only a couple of years ahead of you. That makes everything feel approachable; you can ask for help without feeling intimidated.

"But the best part for me has been getting involved outside the classroom. Joining Business School clubs completely changed my university experience. Everyone in these spaces is passionate and driven, and also friendly and welcoming. It makes the whole experience feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself; you’re part of a community that pushes you to grow."

"It has to be the Accelerate Programme, a semester-long consulting project for high-achieving first-year students. We worked with a real client on a real business challenge, and that’s when everything I’d learned so far suddenly clicked. Before that, “consulting” was just a buzzword I vaguely understood. But through Accelerate, I realised what it actually means: breaking down complicated problems, looking beyond surface-level data, and coming up with creative strategies that actually make sense for people and businesses.

"I loved how it challenged me to think differently: to look at problems not just analytically, but empathetically too. Plus, the mentors and staff involved in the programme are so passionate; they volunteer their time purely to help students grow, which makes it such a special experience. I still keep in touch with some of them today."
 

"The transition was definitely a big change. Moving from Wellington to Auckland meant starting fresh in a completely new city, away from almost everyone I knew. I was naturally nervous but also excited for the unknown. 

"Living in halls helped a lot. There’s something comforting about being surrounded by people who are all figuring it out at the same time. I quickly learnt how to manage my own schedule, which was such a shift from high school, where everything is structured for you. I also loved how flexible the Business School is. You can design your timetable to suit how you work best. I personally preferred to have all my classes across two days so I could dedicate the rest of my week to studying and extracurriculars. It took a bit of trial and error, but that freedom helped me find a rhythm that worked for me."
 

"Be open to everything. This sounds daunting, but seriously, just say yes to opportunities even if you’re not sure what they’ll lead to. In first year especially, you’re exposed to so many different courses, clubs, and projects. Don’t box yourself in too early. Try everything: from joining case competitions to signing up for club events. That’s where you learn the most about yourself.

"The students I see thriving are the ones who get involved. At University, you won’t regret saying yes to something, but you might regret holding back. So don’t wait for “next year.” Go to the events, apply for the programmes, talk to people. You never know what it’ll lead to."
 

"I’ve been so lucky to have really supportive friends and family. My friends at uni are a huge part of what keeps me grounded. When things get stressful, especially around assignments or exams, we’ll go out, do a club event, or just hang out to reset. It makes such a difference having people who are going through the same things.

"My family has also been my biggest support system. They’ve always been the people I go to for advice, and they somehow always know exactly what to say. Moving away from all my childhood friends made me realise how much emotional support matters. Whenever I start to doubt myself, my family remind me of why I’m doing this and what I’m capable of."