Tevita Faleafa - Pacific Studies graduate

“I believe the most important part of my studies, and what has been instrumental in my career within the education sector, is that I have been heavily influenced by the rationale and critical thinking behind both Pacific Studies and Sociology. I believe it has enabled me to view the world in a different light. It has also allowed me to draw on the broader knowledge and skills that I have had the privilege of learning during my time at the University.

“Studying a Bachelor of Arts has opened so many doors for me. Most importantly, the skills and knowledge that I have been able to acquire over the years of learning has allowed me to be a part of different boards and leadership roles.

“I truly believe a Bachelor of Arts not only transforms the way one thinks but also how one sees the world. In a time when all sorts of information is readily available, critical thinking has taken a back seat in processing that information.

“In my role at the Ministry of Education, I manage relationships between the Ministry and schools in the Central and East Auckland areas. I enjoy being able to work directly with principals and their senior leadership team to push and implement change for all Māori and Pacific learners.

“A lot of my career has revolved heavily around equitable outcomes for Māori and Pacific learners, and more importantly supporting our communities in understanding the New Zealand education system. I have an extensive and varied background in the education sector, from working within tertiary institutions and the NZQA to the Ministry of Education.

“Like most Pacific Island boys in my age group growing up, I did not see university as an option for me. In fact, my initial plans as a high school senior were to finish school and start full-time work. People that devalue the power of representation ignore its influence. Because I had never seen a 6’3” Island guy walking around uni with a bag on his back going in and out of theatre rooms, I truly believed it was not a place for someone like me. This, however, changed during that summer school in 2014 when the programme UniBound showed me how diverse and inclusive the University can be for all students.

“I can boldly say that I would not be where I am today without the continuous support received from lecturers and staff who have become lifelong friends. A special mention to the Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific Jemaima Tiatia-Siau, who continues to lead the way through her service and action - not only in the University but also within our Pacific communities.

“Initially, I enrolled with the University to go into another programme. As many do in their first year, I also applied for a Summer School programme, which was known at the time as Certificate of Academic Preparation [now UniBound]. It was during this six-week programme that I was exposed to a glimpse of what the Bachelor of Arts has to offer – and I would be lying if I said that Pacific Studies was not the biggest selling point for me. So, I declined my previous offer and took a semester in Arts. I have never looked back since... and that was a decade ago now!

“I would strongly advise all future students that there is always a place for you within the University. What I found useful to my learning and time at the University is the different support services and social groups that are created for students to ensure their success. I thank all staff, past and present, from Pacific Studies and those that continue to run programmes like UniBound and Tūakana sessions. It is these types of services and people that breathe life into the University and ensure that all students are given the tools that they require to not only succeed at university, but more importantly, succeed in the world.”