Vice-chancellor returns to uni as an undergrad student

Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas is enrolling as an undergraduate student to study a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Māori Studies. She previously finished her PhD in Veterinary Science from Murdoch University in 1997. Her first course will be He Tirohanga Taketake: Māori Perspectives, taught by Te Rā Moriarty at Te Putahi-a-Toi. 

In a blog post, she discloses, “I haven’t yet told my mother I’m doing a BA — she’ll find out when she reads this (sorry, Mum).” Massive rates this attempt at humour a 3/10. Shitting on BAs is our job.  

As to why she’s undertaking the course, Thomas goes on to say, “I’m not trying to ‘be Māori’, but I know I’ve got to understand Māori perspectives and why others might want certain things. Sure, it might help me avoid giving offence, and that’s essential. But more than that, we might find areas of common interest, things that make meaning for both parts of the partnership.” 

As to whether the Vice-Chancellor will start wearing sweats to class and smoke darts outside the library, only time will tell.