Sivouch (Sivvy) Chhay

Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching student
Bachelor of Architecture and Future Environments

She chose to study the Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching to give back to the next generation in a meaningful way, says Sivouch (Sivvy) Chhay who came to AUT as an international student from Cambodia.

“I’ve already completed an architecture degree and teaching felt like the natural next step as it was a way to bring together my creative background, my life experiences and my genuine love of helping others into work that actually makes a difference. I’m studying to become a secondary teacher in design and visual communication, and once I graduate, I’m looking forward to starting my teaching journey. Studying within New Zealand's education system has already taught me so much, and I hope to carry these values and experiences forward to my students here in New Zealand, and one day, in Cambodia too.”

The teaching placements included in her programme have been a highlight for her.

“My programme includes two teaching placements, where we get to experience the real-life environment of teaching and learning across two different schools. These placements have provided invaluable lessons that theory alone sometimes can't cover. They also give us, as new teachers, the chance to apply what we've learnt and to receive feedback from experienced teachers within the school environment. I’m really enjoying my current teaching placement at Avondale College. Getting to know such bright, amazing students and having the chance to teach them has been genuinely rewarding. I've also been fortunate to teach and learn alongside two highly experienced mentors and other amazing teachers whose guidance and support have made this journey both enjoyable and insightful as I grow into the role of a new teacher.”

An enjoyable journey
Sivvy originally came to AUT to study a Bachelor of Architecture and Future Environments, a qualification she completed in 2024. When she decided to build on her previous experience to become a teacher, returning to AUT was an easy decision for her.

“I chose to study my graduate diploma at AUT because my years there completing my bachelor's degree were genuinely enjoyable and insightful. AUT has such a rich culture embedded through its programmes, and across its students and staff. Throughout my bachelor’s degree, I felt well supported by staff, lecturers and the AUT International office. AUT is an innovative university, with content that reflects the real social and environmental issues we all face today. My lecturers and tutors in both education and architecture have always looked out for us students, especially during busy periods like our time on teaching placements or during the exhibition time for architecture. AUT also has a great support system for students, and I’ve sought out many support services during my time here.”

As an international student in New Zealand, she says she is thoroughly enjoying her time in Auckland.

“The culture, the people and the nature I’m surrounded by are what I’ve enjoyed most about studying in Auckland and Aotearoa New Zealand. Auckland’s diversity means I’m constantly learning from different perspectives and worldviews, which has shaped my teaching and who I am today. The people here have been warm, welcoming and friendly, which makes it easy to feel at home. Being just a short drive away from beautiful landscapes and nature is also a very refreshing experience which I’ve found to be very healthy for my mental health and wellbeing.”

Advice for other students
Expecting to complete her graduate diploma in mid-2027, Sivvy has some great advice for other students.

“Grades are only a small part of what matters once you’ve graduated, so try to enjoy the content you’re learning and your passion for it will take you places. Once you’ve graduated, remember that sometimes life doesn’t turn out to be exactly how you expected – keep trying anything and everything, and it will all work out.”

She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to others.

“I’d 100% recommend AUT, and have already been recommending it to the students I’m teaching because of my own positive experience with AUT. I know that they’ll be in good hands and will really enjoy their university experience.”