Tiana Poliko
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil Construction Engineering Diploma in Engineering
Engineering is the perfect combination of math, physics and problem solving, says Tiana Poliko who is now in the second year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Civil Construction Engineering.
“I’ve always been fascinated by coming up with ideas on how to solve problems, and there are so many things I can do as an engineer to help others. Once I graduate, I plan on going into civil engineering with the long-term goal of working in environmental engineering. I’ve always enjoyed finding solutions to help the environment and I think environmental engineering would be my way of giving back.
“I chose to study engineering at AUT because I loved the atmosphere this university provides, both in and out of the classes. There are many spaces to focus, study and get help as well as so many cool spaces to chill, hang out with friends or meet new people. My experiences at AUT have been nothing but good. The way the courses are taught is engaging and interesting, but AUT doesn’t just focus on studies. They have a strong focus on the students themselves. We have so many inclusive spaces for everybody, and the people are so welcoming.”
She says there is one lecturer who has made a particular impact on her studies so far.
“I think that Dr Lorenzo Garcia really solidified my choice to study engineering at AUT, and he also inspired my interest in the sustainability aspect of engineering. His way of teaching is engaging, and I was constantly learning. The class taught me so many things I had never realised were key parts of engineering, and any time I was lost throughout his course he was also able to help clarify any issues.”
A sound starting point
For Tiana, the first step of her AUT journey was enrolling in the Diploma in Engineering.
“I chose to study the diploma first because I knew that there were certain areas in my knowledge that I’d need to improve on if I wanted to study engineering. I felt that if I did the diploma, I could work on those weak points while also learning the basics and making sure that engineering was the right path for me. I knew that in the Diploma in Engineering I’d learn the same things everyone else would in the first year of the engineering degree and could then move directly to the second year of the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours); not slowing down my progress towards my goals.”
She loved being able to meet so many new people from so many walks of life through the diploma.
“Everyone was starting at different points in their lives, and being able to go through my first year of university with people alongside me made it that much more enjoyable.”
Advice for other students
Tiana has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“My advice for other students would be to go to all of your classes. University is very fast moving, and if you don’t go to class you might miss key parts that are crucial to your assignments or exams. Making friends is also important to succeed. Having a support system while you’re here and having those people to study with will not only boost your morale but also your motivation to do well.”
She has one more important piece of advice.
“Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, whether it’s asking questions, making friends or applying for opportunities you would never dream of doing.”
