For one week during January, 400 students going into Years 12 and 13 from around New Zealand travelled to Dunedin to experience life as a university student.

We stayed in a hall of residence either Arana or Studholme depending on the project we were in. We were allocated projects based on our interests and we spent the mornings in the department of our projects. In the afternoon we spent time in 'snacks' which allowed us to get a taste of other projects and socialise with people outside of our projects. After snacks we had free-time until dinner. Trips were arranged to Baldwin Street or to the museum for those who were interested however many people used the time to go into town and get a costume for the dance on Thursday evening. During the evening a variety of activities were organised such attending a lecture by Matt Carter, doing jump jam outside the Caledonian and a quiz night.
By the time Friday came around many friendships were formed. Hands on Otago was an incredible experience which I strongly recommend applying for if you get the opportunity. Not only will you get to be a uni student, you will create life long friendships.