Helen HuiQun Xue

School Registrar
Future Environments

Helen HuiQun Xue has been part of AUT since 1998, building a career that's taken her from part-time programme assistant to school registrar across different faculties. Almost three decades on, it's still the people – and the sense of being valued beyond the job title – that keep her here.

What’s your role and how long have you been at AUT?

I’m the school registrar for the School of Future Environments in the Faculty of Design and Creative Technologies. I’ve been at AUT since February 1998. Over the years, I’ve worked across several faculties and schools, including Business, Languages, Te Ara Poutama, Hospitality and Education, and now the School of Future Environments. I progressed from a part-time programme assistant to full-time programme administrator, and then school registrar, supporting students and academic staff and helping ensure academic processes run smoothly.

What made you choose AUT – and what made you stay?

When I first migrated to New Zealand, I was grateful to find my first role at AUT, which gave me the opportunity to build a new life and career here. As a migrant, I developed professionally while also learning about New Zealand’s diverse and inclusive culture. I’ve stayed because AUT has supported my growth, encouraged continuous learning and provided the chance to work with colleagues who genuinely care about students and each other.

One experience that has stayed with me was becoming unexpectedly pregnant with my second son shortly after starting at AUT. Coming from China under the strict one-child policy at the time, I was very concerned about how this might affect my new job. Instead, I was met with kindness, understanding, and support from my manager and colleagues. That experience made me feel valued as a person, not just an employee, and it has stayed with me throughout my career.

What has surprised you most about working here?

The people. I’ve been fortunate to work with colleagues who are supportive, collaborative, and willing to help each other. I’ve been impressed by how strongly AUT values diversity and different perspectives, creating an environment where people feel they belong and can contribute. As a migrant, I’ve also been deeply impressed by AUT’s commitment to supporting Māori and Pacific students. Seeing this dedication has helped deepen my understanding of equity, inclusion and belonging in Aotearoa New Zealand.

When did you last think: this is why I do this job?

Whenever I hear from a student or colleague that I’ve made a difference, even in a small way. Whether helping a student navigate a difficult situation or supporting academic staff through complex processes, it reminds me that my work helps others succeed. Like any organisation, there are times when processes are not as smooth or efficient as I would hope. In those moments, I sometimes ask myself why I am here. Then a thank you, a resolved issue or a student’s success reminds me that this job is ultimately about people.

What does working here let you do that you couldn’t do anywhere else?

Working at AUT has allowed me to grow throughout my career while making a meaningful contribution behind the scenes. I enjoy solving problems, improving processes and building trusted relationships across the university. Knowing that my work helps create positive experiences for students and staff continues to motivate me every day.