Enina Maea

3rd-year student, Bachelor of Health Science in Paramedicine

For Enina Maea, her interest in paramedicine began when her grandmother was very sick with cancer and she saw what a difference a paramedic makes when people need it most.

“When the ambulance arrived, something in that moment truly shifted for me. In the middle of uncertainty and fear, the paramedics brought a sense of calm and reassurance to my family that I’ll never forget. The way they showed compassion, attentiveness and genuine care left a lasting impression on me. It was in that moment that I realised I wanted to be part of something bigger – to be someone who could step into people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments and make a difference.

“At the time, I didn’t have a clear direction, but I knew I was meant to be in healthcare. A colleague later introduced me to the Hato Hone St John residential programme, where I had the opportunity to learn while working. That experience gave me insights into the realities of frontline care and opened my eyes to the many pathways within healthcare. It ultimately led me to pursue paramedicine with purpose and confidence. AUT was highly recommended by paramedicine graduates, so choosing to study here felt like the right step forward in achieving my goals.”

Standing in her strength
Now in the third year of her Bachelor of Health Science in Paramedicine, Enina says her time at AUT has shaped her into the person she is today.

“I’d definitely recommend studying at AUT. It has played a major role in shaping who I am today, not just academically but personally as well. I’ve built meaningful friendships, grown in confidence and had access to a wide range of opportunities. The learning environment is supportive, inclusive and very hands-on, which I really value. I’ve loved the connections and friendships I’ve made along the way, as well as the shared drive to keep learning and improving.

“I’ve really enjoyed the constant challenges that come with student life. From sleepless caffeinated nights to juggling assignments and keeping up with content, it has pushed me to stay disciplined and motivated. It has also encouraged me to take initiative and think outside the box, which has been both challenging and rewarding. One of the achievements I’m most proud of is the confidence I’ve gained throughout this journey. When I first started, I was extremely shy and uncertain, but with the support of my peers, friends and lecturers, I’ve grown so much. For that, I’m incredibly grateful.”

She has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.

“My advice would be to not let others dictate what you can and can’t do – you’re the one who defines your own limits. Come in with an open mind and be prepared to put in the work but also take the time to enjoy the process. Failure is part of the journey, but success is always an option.”

Supported to thrive
Her lecturers have been incredibly supportive, Enina says.

“My lecturers have gone above and beyond to help me succeed, which has made a huge difference in my journey. There were a few key staff members who have particularly supported me throughout my degree: Ben Reynolds, Dr Joey McGrath and Brayden Shaw. They consistently went the extra mile, giving up their own time to help students better understand difficult concepts. This included phone calls to explain pathophysiology, running support study groups and regular wellbeing check-ins. Their passion for teaching and genuine care made a huge impact on my learning. Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

She is also grateful for the support of a Hato Hone St John Manukau Area – AUT Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedicine) Equity Scholarship to help her achieve her goal of becoming a paramedic.

“The scholarship was a valuable opportunity for me, not only in helping to ease financial pressure but also in enabling me to get involved in community-based initiatives. It encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and be part of something meaningful, while hopefully inspiring others with similar goals. It has reduced stress so I can focus more on my studies and better support my family. Through this scholarship, I was able to attend community events and take part in programmes like 3 Steps for Life. In these sessions, we helped equip individuals with the confidence and skills needed to respond in a cardiac arrest situation. This experience has enabled me to build meaningful connections within the community.”