Samuel Wong - Geospatial careers profile

Sam is studying for a Bachelor of Data Science (Major in Spatial Data Science) at the University of Canterbury

Geospatial student Samuel Wong standing in front of a leafy green background

What year 13 subjects did you take?

Geography, Classical studies, History, Biology and Calculus,

What secondary school did you attend?

Newlands College

Why have you chosen to study GIS?

GIS offered an exciting and new point of view, trying to understand the interaction of events and locations, using computer software. It felt like something new and allowed me to develop computing skills.

How important is GIS for your future career options, and why?

GIS is extremely important to my future career options, it’s becoming a key skill that employers are looking for, and having a strong understanding of GIS helps me stand out.

How has studying GIS shaped your career goals?

GIS and its implications have opened a lot of doors that I didn’t know existed. One way GIS has shaped my career goals is working with network analysis methods, and I aspire to use GIS to improve internet access across the globe.

What advice would you give to future students considering adding a GIS component to their studies?

Do it! GIS is an amazing skill to have, and it really changes your perspective on things. It also offers new challenges outside of a regular geography experience.

Last year you applied successfully for a Toitū Te Whenua LINZ external tertiary GIS scholarship. What difference has this made to you and your GIS study courses?

The Toitū Te Whenua LINZ external tertiary GIS scholarship has had a profound impact on my GIS study. Their support has relieved the financial strain, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies without worrying about increasing student debt. I'm immensely thankful to Toitū Te Whenua, and I recommend all aspiring GIS enthusiasts to apply!