Randy Mejia - BSportHPE
After ten years in the United States Marine Corps, Randy Mejia moved to New Zealand to be closer to his son. A Government scholarship has enabled him to study a Bachelor of Sport, Health and Physical Education (BSHPE) at Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland (UoA).
“The beautiful landscape and people of New Zealand as well as having a son over here made me relocate. Originally I wanted to study to become a Physical Therapist, then I found the BSHPE."
It's been fantastic so far. I enjoy getting to learn in-depth about physiology, anatomy and heath. The lecturers and professors are passionate about what they are teaching, and about making sure you understand what you’re being taught.
“It's been fantastic so far. I enjoy getting to learn in-depth about physiology, anatomy and heath. For example, Sporthpe201: Whakatinanahia is about cultural interactions through and about movement. Before this, I was really only familiar with 2-stepping in Texas, but this teaches you about dancing and using your whole body to show emotions and express feelings.
“The lecturers and professors vary in teaching styles, but they’re all passionate about what they are teaching, and about making sure you understand what you’re being taught.”
Randy notes that the workload is good, but it’s important for students to balance academic work with practical training. During the BSHPE, students take part in a service-learning experience where they develop specialist knowledge and skills.
Service learning is a structured educational experience which is designed around students being actively engaged in, and reflecting on, a workplace environment relevant to sport, health and physical education contexts. The course focusses on knowledge and skills to help graduates make the transition from undergraduate study to employment.
Randy is looking forward to his next year of study and being only one year away from graduation.
“I'm excited about experiencing more practical skills through hands-on training. Engaging with peers and participating in workshops related to sports and health will benefit me in the long term.
“I’m also looking forward to my own personal growth, along with building relationships, and my communication and leadership skills that I can carry through to my future career. I’m highly considering doing the one-year Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary) after I graduate to become a sport and health teacher.”
As an international student, Randy has enjoyed exploring New Zealand as well.
“I love the waterfalls, I’ve been to Kitekite Falls and explored up North, but I’d love to do some more travel around South Island.
“If you’re at all interested in sport, health, and community well-being, the BSHPE is definitely for you.”