Jason Bran
3rd-year student, Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Networks and Cybersecurity with a minor in Artificial Intelligence
What he has enjoyed most about his studies is the practical tutorials and lab sessions that accompany each course, says Jason Bran who came to AUT as an international student from Papua New Guinea, supported by a Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship.
“I consider myself a kinaesthetic learner, which means that I learn best through hands-on experience and actively applying what I’ve been taught. The practical exercises in my courses helped me better understand the theory from a different perspective. A prime example is the final-year research and development project. This course has enabled me to apply the technical knowledge I’ve gained throughout my degree to a real-world problem while also developing important communication, project management and stakeholder engagement skills. It has given me the opportunity to interact directly with industry professionals and better understand how technology can be used to solve business challenges.”
Passionate about using his studies to make a positive impact in his home country and across the Pacific, Jason said it was a conversation with one of his IT instructors in Papua New Guinea that inspired him to come to AUT.
“I chose AUT because of a conversation I had with one of my IT instructors in 2017. She had studied at AUT through the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship programme and often spoke about the positive experiences she had as a student. Hearing her stories left a strong impression on me and sparked my interest in the university. From that point on, I told myself that if I ever had the opportunity to pursue a bachelor's degree in New Zealand, AUT would be my first choice. Looking back now, I'm grateful to have had the chance to follow that goal and experience the university for myself.
“Throughout my studies, I’ve come to realise that many Pacific nations face unique challenges, and I believe there is value in developing cybersecurity frameworks, policies and processes that are better suited to our local context. Studying this programme has given me the opportunity to build the foundation needed to contribute to that goal in the future. As technology continues to grow in importance, I hope to play a part in creating solutions that are relevant to the unique needs of our region. I’m also passionate about supporting Pacific students through outreach and mentoring initiatives, helping them realise their potential and giving them the confidence to pursue the goals they set for themselves.”
Stepping outside his comfort zone
AUT has enabled him to step outside of his comfort zone in ways he never expected, Jason says.
“As an international student, I initially came to AUT to earn a degree, but along the way I found opportunities to take on leadership roles, participate in student communities and build lasting friendships. These experiences helped me become more confident in myself and showed me that university is about much more than academics. One achievement I’m particularly proud of is receiving a Manaaki NZ Scholarship to pursue my studies at AUT. I was also honoured to be included in the 2025 Semester 2 Golden Star List, which recognises scholars who have achieved academic excellence. Another highlight of my time at AUT was serving as vice-president of AUT Māori and Pacific in STEM (AUT MAPS).”
There are a few staff and support services he has especially appreciated throughout his time at AUT.
“The Vā Pasifika – Pacific student support team has been one of the most valuable support services throughout my time at university. The staff, particularly Isabella Rasch and Aisa Mage, have created a welcoming and comfortable environment where Pacific students can connect, express themselves and feel a sense of belonging. They always make the effort to get to know students personally and greet everyone who comes through the Vā Pasifika space. It feels like a home away from home.
“Another service I’m truly grateful for is AUT's counselling and mental health service. It was through AUT that I attended my first ever counselling session, and it turned out to be an incredibly positive experience. April Etuata made the session feel comfortable and genuine. Rather than feeling like a formal counselling appointment, it felt more like a conversation between two people working together to identify the root causes of challenges and explore practical solutions. That experience changed my perspective on counselling and showed me the value of seeking support when needed.”
Advice for other students
Jason’s advice for other students is simple: make the most of the support services available at AUT.
“Whether it's academic support, wellbeing services or student spaces like Vā Pasifika, these services are there to help you succeed and make your university journey a little easier. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it because there are people who genuinely want to see you do well.”
Join clubs and student groups, he adds.
“University is about more than just attending classes and completing assignments. Joining a club provides opportunities to make new friends, build meaningful connections, develop leadership skills and become part of a community that shares similar interests. Some of my most memorable experiences at AUT have come from getting involved outside the classroom.”
