Surveying students have had one hell of a fortnight, managing to get on the piss with surveying companies’ dime. Over twenty companies (from both NZ and Aus) were in town on a recruitment spree, offering both summer internships for third-years, and graduate positions for fourth-years – all with the help of a bit of liquid networking courage at after gatherings.
Both third and fourth-year students were invited to University-hosted employer events with the companies. School of Surveying Dean, Professor Tony Moore, confirmed to Critic that the school “conducts an annual recruitment drive during which various surveying companies present to 4th-year students who are nearing graduation and seeking employment [...] Additionally, 3rd-year students are also invited to attend [...] as these sessions can provide them with information on potential summer internships and future job opportunities.”
These events were then followed by company hosts at a variety of different pubs by prospective employers. Although it was first reported to Critic that these events were “open bar” type affairs – raising an eyebrow or two – it has since been claimed that the tabs would run out after a period. Anyone who’s been to an “open bar” 21st will know that that only lasts for the first 30 minutes or so before you’re relegated to sending your hot friend to the bar if you want a free drink.
Critic was told that surveying students were lucky enough to snag drinks at The Bog, Emerson’s, Ombrellos, and Lone Star for a cheeky nibble as well. Speaking to the time had at the events, Harry* told Critic that the vibe was “good – all the company’s love a yarn.” But after-gatherings weren’t limited to licensed premises. Harry also mentioned that when the bars would close at midnight, they would “go to someone’s flat – depends on how rowdy the CEOs are.”
Regarding the “liquid courage” involved in the two-week recruit, Professor Moore said, “On-campus, companies are permitted to provide non-alcoholic refreshments, such as snacks or non-alcoholic beverages, during their presentations. We do not allow alcohol on campus during these events. For gatherings organised by companies off-campus, such as at bars or other venues, these events are arranged independently by the companies and are not endorsed or organised by the University. We ensure that any such events are clearly communicated to students through promotional materials provided by the companies. The University does not facilitate or oversee these off-campus activities, and they are managed entirely by the participating companies.”
On the benefits of the two-week bender beyond just the bar, one third-year surveyor, Sean*, told Critic, “I think it’s a good idea that companies are coming down and telling us about their company. Sort of gives us an insight on what our lives might look like in the future.” However, he added, “I’m not sure, but the companies that put on a bit of food and drinks at the pub don’t really seem interested in talking to the surveyors […] the boss was on the other side of the room to where everyone was.” Seems it’s not only the students who needed to brush up on their networking skills.
The series of employer events ended last Friday, August 9th. Condolences to all the surveyors who missed out.
*Names changed.