Katalina Ma
University of Auckland graduate Katalina Ma is from the Kingdom of Tonga and hails from the villages Tu'anuku, Vava'u and Folaha, Tongatapu.
Katalina has a Master of Professional Studies in Math Education, a Bachelor of Science (Mathematics), and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary).
She completed a dissertation as part of her masters degree assessing how low-decile south Auckland schools were performing at the Auckland Mathex Competition.
Why did you decide to pursue a Master of Professional Studies in Math Education?
"As a newly appointed Head of Department at a Secondary School in Auckland, I wanted to understand how the school was performing regarding curriculum and pedagogy."
" I also wanted us to engage with literature that would support our staff and students working towards various pathways available after secondary school."
What do you like most about the programme and why?
"The lecturers for the MProfStuds were great. They challenged my thinking and inspired me to think more about literature and how it could assist with how we practice in the math classroom."
I am grateful for all the opportunities that I had during my time as a student at the University. I have met some great people who have become lifelong friends and mentors.
Did you receive a scholarship while you were studying?
"I received the Aldis Scholarship before starting my undergraduate degree in summer school." Completing Maths 102 over the summer alongside other māori and Pasifika students from around Tamaki allowed us to network and make friends early in our university journey." It also meant that we were getting early exposure to the academic rigour of a university paper and how to utilise the available support."
Have you used any of the University support groups or services?
"Tuākana Science! I was a student and a tutor for Stage 1 maths papers. I met other amazing mentors and academic staff in the science faculty who were supportive and offered guidance."
Is there anything else you want to mention about your time at University?
"I am grateful for all the opportunities that I had during my time as a student at the University. I have met some great people who have become lifelong friends and mentors.
"As a former secondary school teacher and now a Pathways Manager at Waipapa Taumata Rau, I find sharing the many opportunities the University offers helpful.
"My sister, friends, and I are products of the great lecturers we were fortunate to learn from the available support programs. I have used that journey to help design and implement the outreach programmes we oversee so that communities benefit too."
We're always looking for stories to share from our passionate Science students.
If you have a story, we'd love to hear from you. Email science-web@auckland.ac.nz.