At Locals, we know that transitioning to university study can be challenging, especially if you’re not living in a residential college. That’s why we provide targeted academic support to help you feel confident and succeed in your studies from day one.
Supplementary learning sessions – Supps
Locals offers supplementary learning sessions for first-year students taking Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) papers, known as Supps. These tutorials are designed to give you the same level of academic support as students in residential colleges and are led by senior students currently studying in professional programmes.
- Three sessions per week, per paper – two in person on campus, and one on Zoom
- Small-group learning – each tutorial is capped at 45 students
- Accessible scheduling – we offer a range of session times, including some on weekends to accommodate different timetables
- Commitment required – once enrolled, regular attendance is expected so that everyone gets the most out of the experience
Places are limited and tutorials fill quickly. Students will be notified by the end of the week if they’ve secured a spot, and a waitlist will be created for any overflow.
Peer mentoring programme
The Locals PeerConnect programme connects first-year Locals students with small groups of peers studying similar subjects, supported by trained student mentors.
PeerConnect helps you settle into university life by offering guidance from experienced students who understand the transition to Otago. Mentors run group catch-ups, share information about study expectations, and provide support with academic and social aspects of student life.
The programme aims to build connections between first-year students, improve understanding of University systems and language, and encourage engagement with Locals events, study spaces, and support services throughout your first semester.
One-on-one guidance and referrals
Our Locals team includes two staff members dedicated to academic support, as well as student engagement leads who have been through their first year themselves. Whether you need help figuring out where to start, want advice on study strategies, or need to be pointed toward the right University service, we’re here to help.
Working with Student Academic Skills (SAS)
We work closely with Student Academic Skills to ensure you have access to additional University-wide support. This includes:
- PASS (Peer-Assisted Study Sessions)
- Academic writing and study skills workshops
- One-on-one peer writing support
- Individual learning consultations with SAS staff
YYou can also access the UNIO 101 Aoroa Page, which is packed with study tips, tools, and transition support for new students.
Whether you're working toward Health Sciences, Humanities, Commerce, or Sciences, Locals is here to help you navigate university life and thrive academically.