“Completing the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Preparation gives a student a great advantage in many areas of study including research and writing skills, technology skills and a basic introduction to key subjects throughout the degree program (herbal medicine and the scientific workings of the body). One of the under-recognised aspects of a degree program is time management and academic skills. As part of the certificate, a student learns or re-learns how to present work to an academic standard. This includes referencing and assignment presentation standards. A student learns how to structure an essay and how to use referencing software, the latter being perhaps one of the most useful and practical skills when it comes to presenting assignments and collating research. Another valuable paper as part of the certificate program focuses on supporting students technology skills. There is also excellent guidance to help students to use relevant software. I remember one week, a tutorial was uploaded about how to collate notes and research using OneNote. I have since created my own database of research through this software and have continuously added to it throughout the degree. Students are also taught how to use online databases for research purposes, including how to download citations into referencing software. This takes a lot of pressure off the remainder of your study throughout the degree. The sections on natural medicine and basic chemistry are an excellent introduction into what is expected throughout the degree. It is only now in my third year at the college that I can truly appreciate and value the certificate program. I would highly recommend the course as a precursor to the degree for anyone considering a career in natural medicine.”