Science student support advisers

If you feel like you need support or guidance with your studies, talk to one of our friendly advisers.

Care and support

We’re here to listen, work with you to find solutions and offer support in a safe,
non-judgmental space.  Plus, we can connect you with the right resources to help you through.

We can support you with:

  • Facilitating a space to discuss your mental wellbeing. 
  • Provide guidance on processes such as late deletions or aegrotats. 
  • Offer support with academic standing (At Risk, Restriction, Termination).
  • Discuss equity related concerns.
  • Offer general academic advice in relation to your needs, such as reducing workload or taking a break from studies.
  • Time management, semester scheduling and dealing with procrastination.

Make an appointment

Connect to the relevant student support adviser below to request an
appointment or you can email sciencessa@auckland.ac.nz.

   
Abi van Dyke
Psychology, Statistics, Rainbow students and students with a disability
Dyan Catral
Computer Science, ITM, Data Science, Anthropological Science and High Performing Athletes
Kaiwen
Yang
Marine Science and Transnational Education students
Sheenam Bajpai Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences (students enrolled before 2027), Pharmacology, Physiology, Exercise Sport and Rehabilitation Sciences
Malisa Harford Māori and Pacific students
Malia Vaka’uta Maths, Physics and postgraduate students 
Sirirat Ratthanachiporn Chemistry, Food Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Earth Science and international students

About our Student Support Advisers

Student Support Adviser Abi van Dyke
Student Support Adviser Abi van Dyke

Kia ora koutou | Sàwàtdii kâ,

Ko Abi toku ingoa. I understand that there can be difficulties during studies and am here to help navigate them. I am passionate about empowering students’ well-being and supporting them in their university journey. I acknowledge and hold space for those with added challenges that can impact them, regardless of what these challenges may be.

I have completed a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Psychology, as well as a Certificate in Fine Arts. My work and volunteer experience background is in a variety of support and youth work roles.

If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I am keen to have a chat, listen and guide you through what you need support with!I look forward to connecting with you.

Contact Abi van Dyke for support if you study Psychology, Statistics or if you're a student with a disability or identify as a rainbow student.

Student Support Adviser Dyan Catral
Student Support Adviser Dyan Catral

Kia ora! My name is Dyan and I am incredibly passionate about supporting students’ holistic wellbeing and academic journey. I value creating meaningful connections and I’m always keen for a chat! I am here to listen to your experiences, link you with a range of support, and empower you to reach your full potential.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, both from the University of Auckland. My career background is in student support in Aotearoa New Zealand schools.

I look forward to connecting and journeying with you throughout your studies at Waipapa Taumata Rau!

Contact Dyan Catral for support if you study Computer Science, ITM, Data Science, Anthropological Science, or if you are a High Performance Athlete studying in the Faculty of Science. 

Student Support Adviser Kaiwen Yang
Student Support Adviser Kaiwen Yang

Kia ora koutou - 你们好!

I am Kaiwen, a Student Support Adviser for international students from articulation programmes in the Faculty of Science. Through my experience of working as an international student Support Adviser and being an international student myself, I fully understand that studying abroad can be very challenging for many international students.

It is my passion to help you navigate through these challenges when you
face various social-cultural and academic adjustments to a new environment,
helping you regain your confidence and work-life balance, and seeing you thrive on your study journey at the University of Auckland.

I have a Master Degree in Marine Science and my career background is in
transnational education. Please feel free to send me an email and book a Zoom
or face-to-face appointment. I am happy to help.

Contact Kaiwen Yang for support if you study Marine Science or if you are a Transnational Education student in the Faculty of Science. 

Student Support Adviser Malia Vaka’uta
Student Support Adviser Malia Vaka’uta

Mālō e lelei, ko hoku hingoa ko Malia Vakaʻuta.

I'm passionate about empowering students and supporting them throughout their educational journey.

 As someone who has faced my own academic challenges, I understand that university can be exciting, but also overwhelming at times. Those experiences have given me a genuine passion for helping others build confidence, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals.

My academic journey has included completing a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Psychology and Pacific Studies, a Postgraduate Diploma in Science and a Master of Science with First Class Honours. Alongside my studies, I have developed valuable experience in youth work and research, allowing me to support students from a place of both knowledge and understanding.

Whether you need guidance with your studies, help navigating university life, or simply someone to listen and encourage you, I'm here to support you. No question is too small, and you don't have to figure everything out on your own. I look forward to connecting with you and being part of your journey.

Contact Malia for support if you study Maths, Statistics or if you're a postgraduate student.

Student Support Adviser Malisa Harford
Student Support Adviser Malisa Harford

Kia ora koutou | Talofa lava!

My name is Malisa and I am a Student Support Adviser for Māori and Pacific students across the faculty. I understand that there are both exciting and difficult times during your studies and I am here to support you in both.

As someone who finished studying a couple of years ago, I understand all the exciting and nerve-racking things that come with studying. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in History and Ancient History and I am currently studying towards a Masters in Pacific Studies.

Please feel free to reach out if you ever need some guidance, support or are looking to have a chat. I am keen and excited to meet with you all very soon!

Contact Malisa Harford for support if you are a Māori or Pacific student studying at the Faculty of Science. 

Student Support Adviser Sirirat Ratthanachiporn
Student Support Adviser Sirirat Ratthanachiporn

Kia ora koutou - สวัสดีค่ะ

My name is Sirirat/Siri. I understand that studying at the university can be exciting, rewarding and sometimes overwhelming and I am here to walk alongside students through both the positive and challenging parts of their journey.

I have a completed a Bachelor of Science majoring in Psychology and Japanese in Wellington and a Master of Social Work (Professional) at the University of Auckland. My background is in mental health, supporting students, young people, families and culturally diverse communities. I am passionate about student wellbeing and creating a safe, welcoming and non-judgmental space where students feel comfortable to share what they are going through.

If you need guidance, support, or someone to talk things through with. I am happy to listen, explore options with you and help connect you with the right resources. I look forward to meeting and supporting you during your time at Waipapa Taumata Rau.

Contact Siri for support if you study Chemistry, Food Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Earth Science and if you are an international student.

Student Support Adviser Sheenam Bajpai
Student Support Adviser Sheenam Bajpai

Kia ora! My name is Sheenam and I'm passionate about supporting students' wellbeing and helping them navigate their university journey. I understand that university can be both exciting and challenging, and I'm here to provide a supportive, welcoming space where you can talk throughany concerns and explore the support available to you.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Psychology from the University of Auckland and have several years experience supporting people with their mental health and wellbeing. I'm passionate about empowering others to build confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals.

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or simply need someone to chat with, I'm here to listen, support you, and connect you with the right services. I look forward to meeting you and being part of your journey at Waipapa Taumata Rau!

Contact Sheenam for support if you study Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences (students enrolled before 2027), Pharmacology, Physiology, Exercise Sport and Rehabilitation Sciences.