Pete On Politics
Kia Ora!
When told that the upcoming Issue of In Unison was politically based, my mind immediately flashed back to my campaign to become USU president. I was faced with a tough opponent; no doubt, That No-Confidence guy was something else. When asked if I thought I was going to win I said “Some people say “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em”. I say “If you can’t beat ‘em, beat ‘em. They’ll be expecting you to join them - you have the element of surprise”. And here I am.
Throughout my childhood my parents wished for me to grow up and become president. With the results of last year’s student election, half of that wish came true. The other half is yet to come and wasn’t helped at all by Kids’ Day Out, there’s nothing like a bouncy castle to make you feel like a child inside. What a day! It was fantastic to see everyone out having a blast! I don’t think we ever “grow up” really. We just learn how to act in public.
As an aside (while on the topic of children and politics), it just hit me that politicians and diapers are regularly changed for many of the same reasons… Funny how little things in life sync up like that…
Yes indeed, there’s some crazy stuff going on these days but I’d honestly recommend not getting caught up in the bureaucracy and rhetoric. I think we all need to realise that being elected into a position of power doesn’t make you a good politician any more than standing in a garage makes you a car. We as humans have an inherent tendency to focus on the wrong issues… We’re too easily distracted. Quit complaining about the rising prices of food and start gardening. Quit being pissed off at gas prices and ride your bike somewhere. Stop moaning about the way people treat each other and focus on treating those around you with love and respect. When tempted to fight fire with fire, remember that the Fire Department usually uses water. So take a deep breath, smile, turn to the person next to you, tell them they’re awesome and then give ‘em a good old fashioned high five. Despite the Super City looming in the distance, life is good!
Have a lovely couple of weeks,
Until next time my friends!
Pete.
Staying hip in changing times:
It would be wrong of me to let this issue go by without making mention of our recent graduands, Congratulations to you all on seeing your course of study through and may I wish you all the best in the future of your life and education! To all those out there who have still got some time left to go, stick with it. I know now from experience that the feeling of accomplishment is worth every late night, every cup of coffee, and every packet of 2 minute noodles consumed. Be hip and stay in school yo.
Get to know your exec: Hamish Walker
Q: Who are you and why are you on the USU exec?
I'm Hamish, originally from Dunedin, studying Accountancy. After having so much fun last year as a student rep, I decided to run for finance officer
Q: What have you done for students so far this year and what are you planning to do in the future?
In January, along with Pete (President) & Lawrence (Vice President) I attended the NZUSU’s annual conference in Wellington. This was a great opportunity to network with students from other Universities and Polytech's from around New Zealand and also gain an understanding of the voluntary student membership bill which is currently going through parliament, which will affect students if passed. In the three months I've been finance officer, I have also had many discussions with students about the USU, what we get up to and how we can make the experience here at Unitec a better one for all students. Interacting with students is stimulating as I learn firsthand how students are feeling about their experience at Unitec. Over the next eight months I look forward to working with my fellow students to make the student experience an even better one.
What’s you favourite animal and why?
Boxer dogs. I would marry my boxer dog if it was legal.