Kat Taufalele

"I was born in the beautiful kingdom of Tonga, but raised right here in Otara, so I have always regarded Auckland as a second home.

"As a recipient of a University of Auckland Pacific Academic Excellence Scholarship, I’ve been blessed with accommodation at O’Rorke Hall. With both the library and Queen Street down the road, the student lifestyle has been a balancing act between my social and academic life.

"My double major in Pacific Studies and Sociology lets me delve deeper into common themes, using both Pasifika and Western perspectives to guide my way. This dual-lens has helped me redefine the standards which I see the world. After I graduate I hope to further change the worlds of others through family law.

"I’m also part of Arts Scholars. This is a mixing pot full of insightful lectures and rousing debates and this year we discussed one of my favourite topics: food. The Faculty of Arts also holds regular panels, a perfect breeding ground for ethically stimulating conversations on controversial issues.

"The inclusive nature of the Faculty of Arts, with both Tuākana and Arts+ tutoring sessions, has made my first year at the University of Auckland one of comfort. I’m also interested in the spoken word scene, frequenting Lounge evenings and poetry workshops held by the Faculty of Arts.

"Some of the most influential connections I've made throughout this year have started with one single word: hello. Make sure to surround yourself with like-minded people and be actively aware of who and what you spend your time and energy on."