Lily French
3rd-year student, Bachelor of Science in Marine Science and Biological Science
She chose to study marine and biological science because she has always been interested in the natural environment and the world around her, says Lily French.
“I’m passionate about being a kaitiaki for the marine ecosystems, and combining both mātauranga Māori and Western science practices to help with designing conservation kaupapa. I want to be able to help with providing meaningful scientific research projects for these conservation initiatives. When I graduate, I’d love to pursue a career in marine microbiology research, focusing on positive outcomes for the health and sustainability of Aotearoa’s oceans. I’m also passionate about incorporating mātauranga Māori into my future work in science, so that research and conservation efforts are more holistic and meaningful.”
She says deciding to come to AUT for her studies was easy because the practical components of AUT’s Bachelor of Science appealed to her.
“The opportunity to go out into the field and develop hands-on skills in the lab really stood out to me. We went on field trips from week one of my first year, and I also have weekly lab classes which has enabled me to become confident working in these environments. I learn best by doing and the field trips and labs have been so awesome. Through my courses I’ve had the opportunity to dive at New Zealand’s first marine reserve, see dolphins in the Hauraki Gulf, see the regeneration of native forest at the AUT living labs and go to the pest-free island Tiritiri Matangi where I got to see iconic Aotearoa bird species like kōkako, hihi, takahē, and tīeke.
“Throughout my studies my lecturers and teaching staff have been so helpful – they’re approachable and always willing to answer questions and provide guidance. I’ve also found the Māori student support team to be really helpful. During my time in student accommodation, AUT’s accommodation staff were so helpful and helped everyone settle into life away from home and build community with the other students in accommodation. This was very helpful as building a support base in student accommodation is important for people who stay there. Being away from home it can be lonely, but Tītahi Ki TUA (TKT) and Māori and Pacific in STEM (MAPS) made it easy to meet like-minded people and feel a sense of belonging.”
Opening doors to new experiences
The experiences at AUT have helped her grow both academically and personally, Lily says.
“One of the things I’m most proud of is the academic success I’ve had at AUT. The student support at AUT has been really strong. My lecturers and teaching staff have all been approachable and helpful when it comes to answering questions and providing guidance. This has made it really easy to excel in my studies at AUT. Alongside academics, I’m also proud of the leadership opportunities I’ve had at AUT. During my time here I’ve worked as a residential assistant in AUT accommodation and as the Māori representative for MAPS (Māori and Pacific in STEM). Through these experiences I’ve been able to strengthen my confidence, leadership skills and ability to support others.”
She is grateful that her studies have been supported by scholarships that helped her reduce the financial stress associated with studying and living away from home.
“Being awarded an AUT Find Your Greatness – Welcome to Auckland Scholarship, Rainbow New Zealand Charitable Trust AUT Tertiary Scholarship and Women on Campus Millennium Scholarship has made a significant difference to my studies, including having my first-year accommodation covered which enabled me to move from Hawke’s Bay to Auckland.
“With the support of these scholarships, I’ve been able to put money towards my tuition fees without needing financial support to cover my course fees. This is something I’m incredibly grateful for and proud of. These scholarships have enabled me to focus fully on my studies with significantly less financial pressure. The AUT scholarships have been life-changing for me – they made tertiary education more accessible for me as a student from a regional area where opportunities are more limited.”
Advice for other students
Expecting to graduate later this year, Lily has some great advice for other students.
“My advice to other students would be to get involved in student life and take advantage of the events happening on campus. Going to class is also really important, not just for your studies but as a great way to meet people and build connections. Say yes to opportunities that come your way, even if they feel outside of your comfort zone. There were a lot of opportunities I was unsure about applying for, or thought I wouldn’t enjoy, that ended up being major highlights of my university experience.”
She says she’d 100% recommend studying at AUT to others.
“One of the main reasons I recommend AUT is the level of student support. AUT provides free GP services, counselling services, gym membership and many more free services for students. They also provide financial support if you’re struggling, and are really understanding when it comes to help with assessments. The lecturers and staff are approachable and genuinely willing to help with any challenges you may face. The student life is another highlight, with clubs, events and workshops that make it easy to get involved, meet people and succeed academically. I’d especially recommend AUT to other Māori students – the Māori support is strong and something the university truly values.
“AUT also sets you up well for finding internships and work opportunities. Through AUT’s Employability and Careers team I was able to gain work experience at Biosecurity New Zealand after connecting with employers who came to the AUT City Campus for talks. The AUT employability staff also supported me throughout the application process and with interview preparation, which ultimately helped me get the job.”
