What excites you most about your role as National President of the New Zealand International Students' Association?
As the National President of the New Zealand International Students' Association, I found the role incredibly exciting, offering a unique opportunity to advocate for the needs and interests of international students in New Zealand. The chance to work on policies and initiatives to enhance international students' overall experience, foster a sense of belonging, and promote cross-cultural understanding was both rewarding and impactful.
The position granted me immense excitement and passion, knowing that I could be the voice representing international students across the country. It was an honour to stand up for their needs and concerns, ensuring they felt welcomed, supported, and empowered throughout their time in New Zealand.
Such leadership positions and influence thrilled me, allowing me to envision and drive positive changes that would significantly improve the lives of thousands of international students pursuing their dreams in New Zealand. Collaborating with educational institutions, policymakers, and various stakeholders, I had the chance to work on essential policies and initiatives, which made a tangible impact on the international student community.
Overall, the experience as the National President was filled with excitement, passion, and a sense of purpose as I dedicated myself to advocating for the international student community and striving to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
What projects have you enjoyed working on the most while in this role?
Some potential projects I enjoyed as National President will be organizing Rebuilding with NZISA Roadshow 2022, collaborating with educational institutions and policymakers to address student welfare issues, working with International reps from each university to support international students' integration, and facilitating networking opportunities.
What do your two UC Blues Awards for Community Engagement (in 2021 and 2022 respectively) mean to you?
Receiving the UC Blues Awards for Community Engagement was an incredibly humbling and gratifying experience for me. It filled me with a sense of pride and accomplishment to be recognized for my work and advocacy on behalf of the international student community at UC.
I never expected to receive such an esteemed award when I embarked on this advocacy journey. My initial motivation was to make a positive difference in the lives of my fellow international students and contribute to a more inclusive campus environment. Seeing my efforts acknowledged and appreciated through the UC Blues Award made all the hard work and challenges worthwhile.
I felt a profound sense of fulfilment knowing that my initiatives and projects had a tangible impact on the international student experience. It was heartwarming to witness the bonds formed within the international student community and the bridges built between domestic and international students due to our collaborative efforts.
The award also validated my leadership skills and ability to rally like-minded individuals around a common cause. It encouraged me to amplify the voices of international students further and advocate for their unique needs on a larger scale. Receiving this recognition was about personal achievement and leaving a positive legacy on the UC campus. I hope my work has laid the foundation for continued efforts to create a more welcoming and inclusive space for future generations of international students.
Above all, the award inspired me to continue my community engagement and advocacy journey beyond UC. It instilled a deeper sense of responsibility to support and uplift others through mentorship, awareness campaigns, or collaboration with different organizations.
You have acted as a student mentor these past few years while at UC. What inspired you to do this, and what did you also take away from this experience?
Being a student mentor can be incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to share knowledge, offer guidance, and support fellow students in their academic and personal journeys. The inspiration to become a mentor arises from a desire to give back to the community, help others succeed, and make a positive difference in someone else's life. From this experience, being a mentor allowed me to gain valuable leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills and a sense of pride in seeing my mentees flourish.
Any highlights of your time at UC?
My time at UC has been nothing short of extraordinary and filled with numerous memorable highlights. First and foremost, the friendships I've made with fellow students from all corners of the world have been invaluable.
Receiving the UC Blues Awards for Community Engagement in both 2021 and 2022 was undoubtedly a major highlight. Being recognized for my dedication and advocacy work supporting the international student community was an incredible honour. This recognition has motivated me to continue making a positive impact on campus and beyond.
Overall, my time at UC has been an unforgettable chapter in my life. The university has provided me with a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment, enabling me to grow academically and personally. I will always cherish the memories, the growth, and the connections I've made at UC.
What advice would you give to a new student thinking about studying at UC?
If you're considering studying at UC or any university, here are some valuable tips:
· Take time to explore the available programs and find one that aligns with your interests and career goals.
· Get involved in campus life and join clubs or organizations that match your passions.
· Make an effort to meet new people and build a diverse network of friends and acquaintances.
· Seek academic support and utilize resources like study groups, tutoring, and counselling services.
· Prioritize your well-being and maintain a healthy balance between academics and personal life.
· Embrace new experiences and be open to learning from different cultures and perspectives.
