Your studies are a big step towards landing the job you want, and taking care of yourself along the way is key. We look at the importance of mental wellbeing, connections and asking for help.
Unitec’s Te Puna Waiora (our counselling and wellbeing team), offers free support for students experiencing life challenges, from depression and grief, to cultural identity and relationship challenges – in fact anything that impacts on your study.
 
As professionally qualified and registered Mental Health Practitioners, the team have noticed that the start of studying can be particularly tough as some students can feel anxious about their course and find it difficult asking for help. Unitec offers a wide range of free support services, all completely confidential, so we encourage you to connect with us as it’s all part of the learning journey.

Nau te rourou naku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.
With your skills and my skills, we will thrive.

One of those free support services is the Unitec’s Career and Employability team. As Career Consultants, their job is to help people ‘find their thing’. They assist students with course and career planning as well as finding work - whether part-time to fund your studies or a full-time job when you complete your course.

Here are the careers and counselling and wellbeing teams' top tips on putting your best foot forward and keeping your mental and social wellbeing on track.

Tip#1: Everything is new!
Starting anything new can feel exciting and sometimes overwhelming. Remember any new experience you had and how you settled in over time. The Counselling and Wellbeing Team advice is to remember you’re here to learn. Allow yourself to ease into your studies and things will fall into place.

TIP #2: Ask us for help
Ask us for help, whether mental, financial, physical or learning, we are here and keen to support you. Unitec has a broad range of confidential student support services available, all free or heavily discounted. The key is to ask for help early – so you can keep moving towards your goals. 

TIP #3: Focus on the learning
Focus on the learning process and the skills you’re gaining along the way - communication, teamwork, problem solving. By looking at the big picture you’ll reduce anxiety and enjoy the learning journey.

TIP #4: Make connections
Making connections with like-minded peers is great for mental wellness and can lead to opportunities.  Join a club or sports team, arrange a coffee with a classmate or chat with a lecturer.  Did you know 80% of us get jobs through connections, so you never know where these connections might lead!

TIP #5: I’ve changed my mind!
We all change our minds, that’s life.  The Career and Employability team’s advice is to look at the bigger picture by finding out more about your chosen industry and the career options available. Speak to your lecturers, they are here to help you. You could also volunteer at a relevant organisation or have a conversation with someone in the industry. If you still feel it’s not for you, the Career and Employability team can help you find a path that’s a better fit.

TIP #6: Structure = balance
Balancing study with family, work or other commitments can distract us from study. The Counselling and Wellbeing team suggest creating some solid structure. Prioritise what’s important, then set clear boundaries and stick to them. It’s also important to stay organised, take good notes and keep on top of your studies to help reduce your mind clutter.

TIP #7:  Prioritise self-care
Prioritise self-care by exercising, eating and sleeping well. The Counselling and Wellbeing team believe they’re a key to your success. Join a gym, sign up to a sports team or check out yoga or meditation.

TIP #8: Address learning challenges early on
If you're finding it tough to keep up with your coursework, whether due to a disability, impairment, or just needing a bit of extra support, it's a good idea to seek help early. Unitec's Access4Success team is here to help, offering everything from assistive technology and note-taking to sign language interpreting and alternative exam arrangements. And if you're struggling with a part of your learning, our friendly Learning Advisors are available for completely confidential support with any aspect of your studies.

 TIP #9: Academic support for study success
Whether you're new out of high school or returning to study after time in the workforce, our Learning Advisors are here to support your academic journey. Every student’s path is unique. Our Learning Advisors offer personalised guidance to help you build your writing confidence, strengthen your academic skills, and succeed in your studies.

TIP #10: Transitioning to work
When transitioning to work from study, the Career and Employability team can assist you in how to find part-time work or how to secure a job at the end of your degree.

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If you want talk to someone, book a free appointment with our Counselling Services team at counselling@unitec.co.nz or 0800 108 510
For course selection, career planning or job-hunting assistance, contact our Career Consultants on 0800 10 95 10 or career@unitec.ac.nz. 
Or, find the complete range of services available at Unitec on our Student Services page.