Samantha Poh
Samantha fell in love with New Zealand when she first travelled here several years ago.
“Everything about it felt new and different, yet in a way familiar to my hometown of Kuching, Malaysia. I chose the University of Auckland because I believed that it offered me the widest range of opportunities – both academically and socially – to advance further in life.”
Samantha studied a Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies, the combination of theory and practical experience within this programme greatly deepened her understanding of child development.“
Being an international student has been an amazing experience. Not only are there a tonne of other international students in the same boat as you, so you’re likely to connect easily with others and make friends, Kiwi students and the university faculty are also very welcoming towards international students.”
Samantha noted that her days in New Zealand have never been uneventful.
“With the right people, it feels like there are endless places to go and things to try out. Personally, my favourite spot to visit in Auckland is Takapuna, with its cute shops, amazing beach, and clear skies for stargazing.
“The Kiwis I’ve had the pleasure of studying with and learning from have been great people to be around. Most of them are talkative, bright, and helpful, and getting to know people from all walks of life has been an eye-opening experience.”
After graduating, Samantha plans on continuing her studies by doing a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education) to receive her teaching certificate and kickstart her teaching career in New Zealand.