First MAPmedics Session back for 2025.

What happened at the first two MAPmedics sessions?

Our first MAPmedics session was purely based on whanaungatanga, getting to know each other, and outlining the purpose and kaupapa of MAPmedics. Both sessions began with a karakia to whakanoa the kaupapa as well as a quick kōrero and kai. Following the kai, our tuakana ran a quizlet team activity which encouraged tauira to engage in getting to know each other while also learning about paramedicine-related things such as medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, and medications etc. During the first session, our tuakana also ran a whakawhanaungatanga activity which included writing down thoughts, ideas, and expectations that MAPmedics tauira had.  The second session opened with a karakia and kai. Following the karakia, our Pasifika and Māori student support teams came in and discussed different support that they as well as the university provide for Māori and Pasifika students. This kōrero was very engaging and a few tauira were keen to learn more! One of our tuakana had organised with Hato Hone St John some work experience at Polyfest for our tauira which many were keen on and signed up for! This session focused on the student's feedback which included IV & simulation practice, as well as essay support.

What was the consensus among MAP tauira regarding the first two sessions?

The consensus around the first two MAPmedics sessions was good. Many tauira emphasised that they would like support around things such as assignments, essays, simulations, pathophysiology, and practical things such as IVs and medication preparation. Others were also keen for support around placement advice, expectations and experiences, study techniques, and just overall advice from previous semesters.

What should MAP tauira know if they are keen to come to MAPmedics in the future but are scared too?

For MAPmedics students who are whakamā and shy, my advice would be to put yourself out there and nau mai haramai! MAPmedics is very much a whānau environment! We understand that many may not feel ‘Māori or Pasifika’ enough and you are not alone. You will always have a mate here at MAPmedics.  Do not feel any less, you are welcome here, and we are here to support you through your university journey, ahakoa ko wai, ahakoa nō hea.  Patua te whakamā, and come along!

Are there any changes at MAPmedics we should be aware of? 

Our MAPmedics tauira were very keen on engaging and increasing whakawhanaungatanga as well as whānau time as per the feedback we received!