Maria Vui
Probation and Parole Officer, Ministry of Justice & Courts Administration, Apia, Samoa
Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology
Studying at AUT gave her the opportunity to step outside her comfort zone, experience a different education system and develop skills for her future career, says Maria Vui who came to AUT as an international student from Samoa.
“I chose to study criminology because I was interested in the issues surrounding crime and the justice system. There were growing concerns in Samoa about crime, particularly cyberbullying and drug-related offending, with increasing reports of methamphetamine use and arrests. Seeing these issues made me want to understand why people commit crimes, what contributes to offending, and how the criminal justice system can better protect and support communities.
“I was fortunate to receive a scholarship through the Samoa Scholarship scheme, funded by the government of Samoa through the Public Service Commission (PSC). Although PSC selected AUT on my behalf, I’d have chosen it myself due to its strong reputation for having a practical, high standard of education, and the opportunities it provides for students to grow academically and personally. AUT also provides a diverse and supportive environment for international students, which helped me transition to studying abroad while developing my academic and personal skills.”
It’s a decision Maria certainly hasn’t regretted, and she had a number of highlights throughout her time at AUT.
“The workplace experience included in my degree enabled me to take what I had learned in the classroom and apply it in a real work environment. I completed my placement with Community Patrols of New Zealand, where I developed my communication, teamwork, leadership and problem-solving skills, while gaining a better understanding of community safety and crime prevention. Another highlight was joining the MAPS club and Niu Collective club. Being part of these clubs allowed me to connect with others, build meaningful friendships, celebrate culture and take part in activities beyond my studies. They gave me a sense of belonging while helping me grow in confidence, communication, teamwork and leadership.”
Supported to thrive
Maria – who graduated from AUT in mid-2026 – says there were a few staff whose support she particularly appreciated.
“Sonja Moffat and Claire Jones both supported me with my placement at Community Patrols of New Zealand, and my lecturers Dr Laumua Tunufa'I and Dr Grace Gordon always took the time to answer my questions and provide guidance to the best of their ability.”
She has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“My advice to future AUT students would be to not just focus on getting through your classes, but to make the most of the people and opportunities around you. Say yes to experiences that may take you outside your comfort zone, whether that’s joining a club, meeting new people or taking up a placement. Some of the experiences I valued most were the ones I didn’t expect, and they helped me grow in ways that a classroom alone could not.
“Choose your friends wisely, because the people you surround yourself with can have a great impact on your university experience, motivation and growth. Most importantly, enjoy the journey, ask for help when you need it and trust that the effort you put in will be worth it.”
Contributing to Samoa’s justice system
Now back in her home country, Samoa, Maria enjoys being able to apply her AUT knowledge in her work for the Ministry of Justice & Courts Administration.
“What I enjoy most about my job is seeing what I learned through my degree come to life in a way I didn’t fully experience in the classroom. After studying criminology and criminal justice at AUT, I now have the opportunity to apply that knowledge while working directly within the justice system as a probation and parole officer. I enjoy learning about each person’s circumstances and understanding the factors that may have contributed to their offending, rather than simply seeing them as an offender.”
She says her role has given her a greater appreciation of the importance of rehabilitation, accountability and supporting people to make better choices.
“For me, this is especially meaningful because I’ve been able to turn an education I received in New Zealand into a career that allows me to contribute to Samoa’s justice system.”
