‘Ana-Rachel Enari
3rd-year student, Bachelor of Business in Management and Leadership with minors in Entrepreneurship and Innovation & Sport Management
The flexibility of her degree is one of the things she is enjoying most about her studies, says ‘Ana-Rachel Enari who is studying a Bachelor of Business in Management and Leadership with minors in Entrepreneurship and Innovation & Sport Management.
“I’ve really appreciated being able to mix different areas of interest rather than being limited to just one focus. Studying management and leadership has helped me better understand people, teams and how organisations operate, while entrepreneurship and innovation has encouraged me to think creatively and develop new ideas. Being able to include sport management was especially meaningful to me because sport is something I’m passionate about. It has been rewarding to study something that aligns with both my career goals and my personal interests.
“I’ve also really enjoyed the student life at AUT, especially getting involved in basketball. I played in both 3x3 and 5x5 teams, which allowed me to stay active and connected to something I love. Through sport, I was able to meet new people, build friendships and feel part of a community on campus. Beyond sport, I’ve enjoyed the balance AUT provides – it feels easy-going and welcoming, but at the same time encourages students to grow and challenge themselves.”
Expecting to graduate later this year, she already has a good idea how she sees her future.
“After graduating, I’d love to work in the business side of sport; whether that’s in sport management, a sport agency or athlete development. I’m especially passionate about creating more pathways and opportunities for Pacific Islanders in high-performance sport. Combining my business knowledge with my love for sport is something that really excites me, and I hope to contribute to an environment where athletes are supported both professionally and personally.”
Supported to thrive
'Ana-Rachel says she is grateful for the support of the NZ Super Fund AUT Business Scholarship – Pacific to help her achieve her goals.
“I received the scholarship in 2024, and it covered my entire second-year tuition fees, which made a significant difference to both me and my family. Financially, it removed a major burden and enabled me to focus fully on my studies without the added stress of fees. Beyond the financial support, receiving this scholarship gave me a strong sense of encouragement and belief in my potential. It motivated me to work harder academically and to represent my community well. It has enabled me to be more present in my studies, take up opportunities and continue working toward my long-term goal of making a meaningful impact in my community.”
There are a few AUT staff members whose support she has particularly appreciated.
“Dr Smita Singh, who taught my entrepreneurship classes, had a significant impact on me. Between my first and second semester in the first year my mother passed away. I returned to university soon after, and her class was the first I attended. During that difficult time, she showed genuine care and understanding, and reminded me that lecturers truly want their students to succeed. Her support helped me get through that semester and meant a lot to me.
“Dr Paulette Brazzale and Prabhash Parameswaran, who taught some of my management and leadership classes, they were also incredibly supportive and I don’t think they realised how much they positively impacted my university studies. Melanie Barr from the Faculty of Business, Economics and Law partnerships team also played an important role in my journey. She regularly shares scholarship and opportunity information with students, and it was through her email that I first learned about the NZ Super Fund AUT Business Scholarship – Pacific.”
Advice for other students
Now in the final year of her studies, 'Ana-Rachel has some great advice for other students.
“My advice would be to stay on top of your work and start assignments as soon as they’re given – don’t leave them until the last minute like I did a few too many times. Managing your time well makes a huge difference to both your stress levels and the quality of your work. Back yourself and apply for opportunities, even if you don’t feel fully confident. You never know where it might lead.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to other students.
“I appreciate the supportive and relaxed culture of AUT student life, which makes it easier to adjust and feel comfortable. At the same time, the lecturers challenge you academically, and encourage you to think differently and expand your perspective. AUT provides a strong balance between practical learning, academic growth and personal development, which I believe prepares students well for their future careers.”
