Rui Ma

Rui is an international officer for the Education and Social Work Student Association. She hopes to graduate from the Bachelor of Education (Teaching) Primary programme with the skills needed to create a diverse and inclusive educational environment to empower her future students.

Rui Ma

“Belonging’ is the best word to describe my experience of being an international student at the University. At O-Week we were brought together from all corners of the world to fulfil our dreams and celebrate the start of our journeys. The University embraces everyone and provides an inclusive environment to safely share and learn from others.

“The support and belonging I feel here has given me the confidence to become an international officer so that I too can help other students improve their university lives.

Studying Primary Teaching has helped me to develop the soft skills I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

“Auckland itself is a beautiful city. I love the urban-rural mix where you can enjoy the vibrant, fast-paced town and night views of the harbour, and also the serenity of nature walking through the bush or spending a day at the beach.

“For me, the biggest benefit of studying for a Bachelor of Education (Teaching) Primary is that I can enhance my communication and teamwork skills and learn professional educational concepts that I can then apply to my future career.

“My advice for those considering moving here to study at the University of Auckland is that you should never limit yourself because here, you will have all the help and guidance you need to reach your potential.”