Ijaz
Ako: Bachelor of Teaching and Learning majoring in Primary Teaching
Hometown: Christchurch
What inspired you to study teaching?
A few years ago, my mum was diagnosed with cancer. I wanted her to be able to see me succeed, so I started studying Education. I’ll be the third generation of Samoan educators in New Zealand for my family. My grandmother, my mum, and my father were all teachers, and I carry on that tradition with pride. Sadly, we lost mum, but she’s still with me in my heart, and I know she’s proud to see me on this journey.
What does being a teacher mean to you?
Teachers play a big role in shaping the world of tamariki.
I get this fuzzy feeling when I'm helping people, and I thought a great way to do that is to help tamariki thrive by providing a safe and warm environment for them to learn in.
How does your upbringing influence your approach as a teacher?
I was raised with both the Samoan and Kiwi way of life, so I’m able to see where I can contribute and enhance the mana of the two cultures, like traditional values stemming from respect and family. Those values help people thrive, and I think it enhances the engagement of tamariki to bring that into teaching and make sure they love coming to school.
What’s it like studying teaching at UC?
UC’s close-knit teaching community is something that I really love. It’s easy to establish a connection with people because you’re seeing the same faces all the time. Everyone supports each other and will help someone out if they need it. We’re all in this waka together.
The lecturers and the student advisors are always there to help, too. They provided a lot of support while my mother was sick and I was struggling to keep afloat. Without their help, I probably wouldn’t be sitting here today.
What are placements like?
Placements help students get familiar with the environment they'll be working in. It's a good way to get work experience and help you make sure that the degree is right for you. My favourite part about placements is getting to know the tamariki, learning what they’re striving for, and seeing how you can fit into that picture to help them achieve it.
Did you go on any overseas experiences for your degree?
I went on a cultural exchange programme with a university in Japan that UC has a partnership with. A group of us with the same passion for teaching and learning went over to explore schools there.
That experience gave me insights into how tamariki from outside of New Zealand might feel coming into school here, especially if English isn’t their first language. It’s given me perspective of what it feels like entering a classroom where you can't read or can't understand, and it’s made me consider how I can make them feel more comfortable.
Have you joined any clubs at UC?
UC has a diverse student population, and that’s reflected in the wide range of clubs. I believe there is a club for everyone here, and if there isn’t, it’s a good opportunity to make one. BakeSoc was one of the first that I joined because I love baking. It provided a really welcoming atmosphere, especially during my first few months at UC.
I also joined EdSoc, for students studying Education at UC. Since the Teaching degree is on a different time schedule, it’s the perfect opportunity for students to connect with each other. They host events for things like Pink Shirt Day, or even cocktail events with other clubs.
What do you enjoy about being a Pacific student mentor?
As a Pasifika student mentor, we check up on our mentees to ensure that they’re easing into uni life and give them tips. Having that knowledge of Pacific Island cultures and values is important because I can relate to them and offer advice on how we can move forward using our cultural values as well.
Any advice for other students considering UC?
My advice is to connect. Talk to everyone you come across. Everyone's so friendly here. Especially for students considering education, connect with each other. It’s a good opportunity to strengthen bonds and support each other.
Are you happy with your choice to study at UC?
I’m loving it. I'm loving what I've experienced here. There’s been so much aroha and everyone along the way has helped contribute to my success, which will enable me to contribute to other people’s success as well.
