Lavinia (Nia) 'Uhila
2nd-year student, Bachelor of International Hospitality Management in Hospitality Management and Event Management
Diploma in Arts
Deciding to study hospitality was easy for her, says Lavinia (Nia) 'Uhila who is studying a Bachelor of International Hospitality Management in Hospitality Management and Event Management.
“I was raised with deep values of serving others, showing care and always doing things to the best of my ability. It ties in with my Tongan culture, and it defines who I am. I genuinely enjoy helping people and creating welcoming experiences, which is why hospitality is a natural fit for me.
“I actually got my start in hospitality when I was only 15; working as a waitress at an events centre. It made me realise this was the right path for me. I wanted a career where I could focus on making people happy and creating those standout moments they’ll remember. I’d specifically like to work in roles where I’m interacting with people every day, and I’ve always dreamt of working in an international environment where I can share my culture and show the world where I come from.”
A home away from home
Nia – who is proudly Tongan from the villages of Kolomotu’a, Vava’u, Kolofo’ou, Ha’apai and Lapaha – says she has always wanted to study at AUT because of the university’s interactive approach.
“I'm an active learner and study better in smaller environments which is why I knew AUT was for me. So, when the university staff visited my school and I heard about AUT’s hands-on teaching style, supportive environment and strong industry connections, I knew that’s where I needed to be. The university's commitment to diversity and student wellbeing, along with its practical approach to preparing students for the real world made it the right place for me to grow both academically and personally.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend studying at AUT to others.
“It’s a great place to study because it supports students beyond just academics. I’ve really valued the practical learning approach and the emphasis on group work, which helps build confidence, teamwork skills and real-world experience. My lecturers and tutors have been incredibly supportive, regularly checking in on how I’m doing, taking the time to listen to my thoughts, and answering any questions I have in class or by email. The Student Hub team helped me financially when I needed it, especially with everyday transport from South Auckland to the City Campus. Doing UniPrep before I started my studies was also valuable because I learned APA referencing, how to navigate Canvas and My AUT, and got a taste of what university life would be like.
“I’ve also really enjoyed being part of a diverse student community, especially connecting with the Tongan community on campus where I took part in the AUT Worldwide event and the Tongan language week celebrations. Being part of the Tongan community led by Niu Collective helped me settle into the student life and find my university family on campus. Going through my first year with friends I made at UniPrep and growing together made university even more special. AUT feels like a home away from home.”
Moving forward with clarity
Starting her studies with the Diploma in Arts was the right step for her, Nia says.
“The diploma was a pathway that met me where I was and helped me move forward with clarity. It allowed me to rebuild my academic confidence, explore my interests and develop strong foundational skills before committing to a degree. I had struggled with how restrictive high school was, but having the space to do things my way at AUT kept me motivated. Passing everything with good grades was a huge confidence boost and proved that I’m at my best when I have the freedom to handle it myself.
“What I enjoyed most about the diploma was the supportive and encouraging learning environment. I made friends who also studied the Diploma in Arts, and we shared all our classes together, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The classes were engaging, the lecturers genuinely cared and I always felt comfortable asking questions and sharing my ideas. The regular Monday and Thursday Diploma in Arts support classes tutored by James and Sophia were especially helpful; offering guidance and encouraging me when I needed it most.”
She has some great advice for other students who are thinking about university study.
“Don’t be afraid to start where you are. Everyone’s journey is different and there are pathways like the diploma that exist for a reason. Always ask for help, believe in yourself and trust that progress is still progress, no matter how small.”
