Joshua Matenga
“The programme gave me practical experience of university culture and allowed me a broad understanding of what things I should expect when the first semester starts.”
“Year 10 of high school was the year I first realised that I wanted to do something in the medical field at university, but I couldn’t pinpoint exactly what it was. Thanks to Whakapiki Ake, the University of Auckland’s Māori admission scheme programme for students with a medical pursuit, I realised my potential ambition for med school.
“I am currently undertaking the Bachelor of Health Sciences in order to attain a critical understanding of populations, the consequences that affect all people of Aotearoa and understand the main contributors that affect the health of ngā tangata Māori and ngā tangata Moana. This will be my foundation when and if I wish to enter med school and undertake a pathway into the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree.”
“Tōia ki Waipapa allowed me to get comfortable with the
learning style at university as there is a huge difference when transitioning
from high school to University.”
“Tōia ki Waipapa was the best programme for me as we were able to study with fun activities planned throughout the week! We would participate in many funded events such as laser tag, bowling, rowing, hearty meals, shopping, sightseeing, more hearty meals and voyaging the waters of Tāmaki Makaurau on a waka similar to that of our ancestors.
“The programme gave me practical experience of university culture and allowed me a broad understanding of what things I should expect when the first semester starts. It also allowed me to make many new friends with whom I would continue to communicate with as I progressed throughout the rest of the year.
“When completing my Te Ao Māori paper during Tōia ki Waipapa, I learnt a lot about the historical context of Aotearoa. We went over much detail about many of the most crucial moments in our history such as He Whakaputanga, the differences between te tiriti and the treaty, Māori politics and many more. The most enjoyable thing I found of interest was the Kapa Haka component because I love to sing!
“For me, the University of Auckland was one of the only tertiary providers to give the most efficient support to tangata Māori seeking a passion for health careers and pathways. One of these services that piqued my interest was MAPAS (Māori and Pacific Admissions Scheme) which aims to help support the journeys of tangata Māori and tangata Moana during their studies. They offer a range of support from additional tutorials that aim to reconsolidate information from course content as well as provide financial support along the way.”
Joshua (Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Porou, Kāi Tahu, Waikato-Tainui, Ngāti Tama) took part in Tōia ki Waipapa in 2022.