O WEEK REPORTS

Otago University Students’ Association president Hugh Baird.

Why is OWeek so important for students returning to Dunedin or coming to the city the first time?

I think it’s an exciting time for all those returning students to catch up again with mates who they maybe haven’t seen over the summer break. As for the new students I think it’s a great opportunity to meet new people and to get right outside their comfort zones and experience a hell of a lot of new things.

How much has OWeek grown while you have been at university?

I think year to year it’s just kept growing, and I think that’s due largely to the events team here at Otago University Students’ Association. They do a fantastic job each time and I think the experience that they have between them now plays a huge part in that.

Do you have a standout memory from OWeeks you have been a part of?

If I had to pick one in particular I would have to say the newfound freedom of flatting in second year.

What will you be doing throughout OWeek?

I’ll be doing my very best to get around all the events throughout the week.

Do you have any advice for students to avoid getting into trouble during the week?

Unless you’ve got a clean pair of heels, its generally a good idea to keep your nose clean.

A lot of those acts have consequences, which, given the university’s tough stance on that sort of behaviour can see you giving up your free time at the start of the year to the proctor.

What do you want to achieve while president of OUSA this year?

The glass recycling issue in the student quarter is a huge focus. I’d also like to work on some smaller events to bring about more of a campus feel, as well as trying to work with the political parties in the leadup to the election, to put students’ concerns on the political agenda.