Overview
The University of Otago offers a high level of support to all students, so that you have every chance of success during your time at Otago.
The School of Physiotherapy support team can help and guide you. You are always welcome to contact any staff member who you feel comfortable to approach and discuss your concerns.
Meet your student support coordinator
Dr Olivia Galea
Olivia is the School of Physiotherapy’s Student Support Coordinator, and provides support for all students at the School.
She is your first point of contact if you are not sure who to ask or where to look for helpful advice.
Email olivia.galea@otago.ac.nz
Olivia can help with queries or concerns affecting your well-being and success, and can connect you with established student services, some of which we list below.
Student services
Career Development Centre
For advice, and some of the tools you need to plan your future
Chaplaincy
Otago Tertiary Chaplains provide a range of pastoral care and spiritual services
Childcare
Disability Information and Support
For more information, advice and assistance on disability-related study support
Health Science Division (International students)
Help at campuses outside Dunedin
Cathy is your first point of contact if you are at another Otago campus or working offsite
Information Technology Services
Provides students, staff and visitors with the best possible IT services, products and support
International office
Offers confidential assistance for international students with any issues or questions
Library
Provides high quality information resources and services
Physiotherapy Subject Librarian Thelma Fisher
Māori Centre
The Māori Centre Te Huka Mātauraka offers a home away from home for students of Māori descent
Pacific Centre
OUSA
Provides members with representation, welfare, advocacy, recreation, fun events and media
Proctor and Campus Watch/Campus Cop
The Proctor’s office works throughout the University to help ensure the safety of students and staff
Student Accommodation Centre
For help finding your own flat or room in Dunedin or nearby
Student Learning Development Centre
Student Health Services
Meet your support team
These team members can offer you confidential support, help to assess your needs and provide guidance on matters as varied as:
- Communication and decision-making skills
- Complaints
- Cultural adjustment and transition
- Disengagement
- Grievances
- Illness and injury
- Motivation and direction
- Staff / student relationships
- Stress
- Diversity
Owen Draper
Kaiarahi Māori, Māori Student Support
Email owen.draper@otago.ac.nz
Charleen Silcock
Pacific Student Support
Email charleen.silcock@otago.ac.nz
Donna Smith
International Student Support
Email donna.smith@otago.ac.nz
Academic support or performance
Prasath Jayarakan
Associate Dean Undergraduate Studies
If you have any queries or issues relating to academic support and performance for undergraduate students please contact Prasath.
Email prasath.jayarakan@otago.ac.nz
Associate Professor Meredith Perry
Associate Dean Postgraduate Studies
If you have any queries or issues relating to academic support and performance for postgraduate students, please contact Associate Professor Perry.
