Kamakanikūhonua (Kū) Pojas-Kapoi
1st-year student, Bachelor of Communication Studies in Digital Communication
Coming to AUT for his studies was easy, says Kamakanikūhonua (Kū) Pojas-Kapoi who came to Auckland as an international student from Oʻahu in Hawaiʻi to study a Bachelor of Communication Studies.
“I chose to study this programme because I’m very interested in photography and similar media, and thought that communication studies could help me move into that world. Once I graduate, I’d love to be a videographer or photographer, working either independently or for someone else.”
Studying overseas was a dream come true for him.
“I knew I wanted to get away from home in Hawaiʻi for a while and didn’t want to go to university on the continent, the mainland USA. At first, I didn’t think going to uni internationally was an option, but after attending the World Indigenous Peoples' Conference on Education (WIPCE) in Australia it was announced that AUT would be hosting WIPCE 2025. That announcement sparked something in me and made me look into unis in other countries, and I ended up picking AUT. I had visited Aotearoa prior to coming to study here, and it felt very similar to home, and I needed that feeling if I was going to another country to study.”
The right choice
While he is still in the early stages of his studies, Kū is thoroughly enjoying his time at AUT so far.
“I’ve enjoyed how interactive my classes have been, and how many different people I’ve met and made connections with here. One of the practical aspects I’ve already experienced is being able to work in AUT’s virtual production studio and use the applications within it. Something that I didn’t expect is how flexible everything is and how you can set up everything so that it can work with your schedule.“
There is one particular staff member whose support he has especially appreciated.
“Jessica Worchel – the course lead for my Uni101 course – has been very supportive, always checks in throughout my studies, and lets me know of any opportunities that I can learn from or gain experience in.”
Advice for other students
Kū has some great advice for other students who are thinking about studying at AUT.
“My advice for other students would be to remember that it’s very important to be prepared to the best of your ability when it comes to applying to study here, and having an understanding of the finances, the classes you’re taking and even the extracurricular activities.”
He also stresses the importance of making connections.
“Meet as many people as you can and build those relationships because you’ll never know where it can take you.”
