Polina Artelemenchuk - Early Childhood Studies

“I was looking for a career where I could help people and change their lives for the better as I have worked in different roles over the years, but none have satisfied me. I wanted my work to help people and to feel happiness and satisfaction knowing that I had made a difference to someone's life.  

“When researching different options for study some close friends suggested Early Childhood Studies. I chose to study at the University of Auckland because of the quality of education provided and I felt that is where I I can get the best education to prepare for my future career. And Auckland is a great city that suits the student lifestyle, whether you prefer a quieter or more active lifestyle. It’s also been great to make new friends who make this journey even more exciting. I am happily studying for a career I love here! 

“I enjoy being able to spend time with kids and to see them grow and develop. In my courses I love learning about the intricate child development and psychology. I was amazed to discover how children are perceived in Te Whariki [an early childhood curriculum]; children are seen as capable and confident, and their curiosity is praised rather than discouraged. They are encouraged to explore the world around them and to problem-solve by themselves, which increases their confidence and their opportunities to learn.   

“I have enjoyed the placements most of all, where each student is allocated to an early childhood centre where we learn by helping and observing the staff. It is great to see in practice and implement what I have been learning during our lectures. After these initial placements, I have no doubt that this is what I want to do and that I have chosen a career that's right for me.

“For me, the role of an educator holds great significance. An early childhood teacher is an important figure in a child's world. Besides their parents, the teacher might be the first person to introduce children to more structured learning and environments.

“Whether or not a child enjoys the learning process and can be confident in their abilities highly depends on the teachers they have around them. The ways we communicate with children and how we find the right approach to each child is most important, something highlighted in this degree.”