Lexie Qiao

Lexie, from China, is studying towards a Bachelor of Education (Teaching), specialising in Early Childhood Education. In 2019 she won a Blues Award for excellence in leadership.

“Education has always been my passion, and I’m interested in the ways people think and learn. I often reflect on my own experience of growing up in both Kiwi and Chinese education systems, where one system values finding your passion and the other values academic achievement. I am interested in exploring the definitions of quality education for Kiwi children, and combining the essence of multiple cultures to achieve more equitable learning outcomes for all students.

“I value my network, and believe the people who surround you are significant for your future development. Choosing the University of Auckland means stepping onto a platform where you can mingle with the best in their fields and fully unleash your potential.”

Choosing the University of Auckland means stepping onto a platform where you can mingle with the best in their fields and fully unleash your potential.

“In 2019, I received a Blues Awards in Leadership and Services from the University – the highest accolade at tertiary level for excellence in leadership. The award recognised my contribution for leading a student programme called Luckia Student Help, to support international students with mental health and personal development over the past two years. The acknowledgement has encouraged me to pursue my passion and showed me there are so many possibilities at University.

“My future career goal is to achieve high-quality education opportunities for students and support them to become global citizens by running businesses and not-for-profit organisations. In the 21st century, soft skills are the most competitive advantages for the job market. The best thing about studying a Bachelor of Education for me is to equip me with professional communication skills in the workplace and gain rich insights about cutting-edge educational philosophies.”