Archie Leuluaialii
2nd-year student, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Counselling Studies
Deciding to study psychology was easy for him, says Archie Leuluaialii who is completing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Counselling Studies.
“I decided to study psychology as I’ve always been passionate about the wellness of Pacific people and about removing the barriers and stigmas around accessing mental health and wellbeing services. Once I graduate, I’d like to be involved in youth development and social work, or just really in any position where I can serve the communities that served me when I was growing up. I want to truly give back.”
Now in the second year of his studies, he is thoroughly enjoying his time at AUT.
“I chose to study at AUT because of its practical approach to study and the wide range of support services available to students throughout their studies. Through my studies so far, I’ve developed character and built resilience as a student but also as a person. The diverse range of people I’ve come across has also really made an impact on my university journey; even brief encounters often remind me of why I’m studying.
“One thing I’ve enjoyed the most about AUT student life is how invested AUT is in ensuring students have different outlets to express themselves in their identity. There’s something for everyone at AUT, whether that be a club, association or a community you can connect to. Another thing I enjoy about AUT is that there’s always something happening on campus that students can participate in. I think having these initiatives for students helps to promote a healthy study and wellbeing balance.”
Supported to achieve his goals
Archie is grateful for the support of an AUT Ki Uta Ki Tai – Aspire Scholarship and a Woolf Fisher First-in-Family Scholarship to help him achieve his goals.
“These two scholarships have supported me and made my university journey more accessible, despite the financial burdens many young Pacific students like me face. Not only do the scholarships help me in terms of the financial aspects of university, but they’ve also blessed me with the platform to pursue higher education, which in itself is a privilege.”
It's a responsibility he doesn’t take lightly.
“There are many who don’t have the opportunity or luxury of pursuing higher education due to financial hardship or other factors, so being a scholarship recipient has been something I don’t take lightly.”
Advice for other students
Archie’s advice for other students is simple: never forget your why.
“Throughout your university journey you’ll experience a lot of highs and lows but it’s important to remember what motivates you to keep striving, whether that be your family, your community or your village. Stay true to yourself and understand that everyone is on their own unique journey. Your journey doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s.”
He says he would highly recommend studying at AUT to other students.
“Coming straight out of high school, I heard so many great things about AUT, especially that it had a combination of theory and practical-based learning. Starting with AUT’s UniPrep programme gave me a headstart into university, and I was able to use the skills I gained from that course to help me navigate my studies. Seeing a large number of Pacific students pursuing their studies here at AUT is inspiring, not only for me as a student, but for the future generation of students to come.”
