Soo Bin Kim
Master of Teaching and Learning (Primary) student
When Soo Bin Kim first met two of AUT’s education lecturers during her application process, she immediately knew this was the right university to fulfill her dream of becoming a teacher.
“I used to work in marketing in my home country South Korea, but after a while, I began to question whether it was the right career for me. I eventually left my job and started teaching English to primary school students part-time. To my surprise, I found so much joy and a sense of achievement in teaching children, something I had never experienced in my previous career. This inspired me to explore how I could become a primary school teacher.
“I saw New Zealand as a country that offered opportunities for people from different backgrounds, and I decided to take on a new challenge and pursue a teaching career here. I applied to several universities in New Zealand and had already received an offer from another university. However, after my interview with the lecturers at AUT, I knew that AUT was where I wanted to study. Martha McFaul and Dr Ross Bernay were incredibly warm and welcoming. They showed genuine interest in me as a person and asked thoughtful questions about my teaching philosophy, educational background and previous teaching experiences. Their questions were insightful, and throughout the interview, I felt that they genuinely cared about getting to know me. I remember thinking, ‘This is exactly the kind of place where I want to study’.”
That positive first impression continued once Soo Bin began her studies, and there are a few lecturers whose support she has particularly appreciated.
“Dr Ross Bernay showed genuine care and offered thoughtful advice for his assignment. Through his teaching, I learned about positive behaviour management, which has become an important part of my teaching practice. Martha McFaul helped me find direction when I struggled to choose a topic for my master's degree research. Her teaching also helped me develop a clearer understanding of scaffolding, which I’ve been able to apply in my own lessons. Dr Lincoln Dam encouraged me to think deeply about identity, something I had never really considered before. His thoughtful and warm approach to teaching inspired me and helped shape the kind of teacher I want to become. I’m truly grateful to have learned from these wonderful lecturers.”
Learning through people and practice
The people she has met and the opportunities to put her learning into practice have been among the highlights of Soo Bin’s experience as an international student at AUT.
“One of the things I’ve enjoyed most is meeting people from different cultural backgrounds. Many of my cohort were also starting a new chapter in their lives, and we shared our experiences, understood each other’s challenges and encouraged one another. I’m so grateful that AUT brought these wonderful people into my life. Visiting the marae at AUT’s City Campus was another memorable experience. It gave me an opportunity to learn more about Māori culture and think more deeply about New Zealand’s bicultural identity, and the importance of understanding and respecting Māori culture.
“My two practicums were also invaluable because they enabled me to apply what I had learned at AUT in real primary school classrooms. During our practicums, we were placed in primary schools, where we experienced teachers' daily routines and had opportunities to take full responsibility for teaching for one week and three weeks. At first, I worried about how long the practicums would be, but once I started, the time flew by! Taking full responsibility for teaching was particularly meaningful and helped me develop a clearer understanding of my own teaching philosophy and strengthen the teaching strategies that worked for me. I was also very fortunate to have wonderful associate teachers supporting me and to get to know so many lovely students. I’ll always treasure these experiences.”
With graduation just around the corner, she already has a good idea of what kind of teacher she’d like to be.
“I hope to become a warm and caring teacher who leaves a lasting positive impression on students. I want to be more than someone who simply teaches knowledge. I want to take a genuine interest in each student, help them recognise their strengths, and support them as they grow into confident and kind individuals. I hope that one day, my students will remember me not just for what I taught them, but for how I made them feel valued and supported.”
Advice for other students
Soo Bin has some great advice for other students.
“Don't worry too much. Just give it a go! Take things one step at a time, and before you know it, you'll be approaching graduation. During your practicums, try to take as many teaching opportunities as you can. Every experience, whether it goes well or not, will teach you something valuable and help you grow as a teacher. Most importantly, enjoy the journey. Starting a new chapter in life is always exciting, and you never know how much you’re capable of until you give it a try.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to other students.
“What I appreciate most about AUT is how much the lecturers genuinely care about their students. They’re always open to questions, willing to listen and ready to offer support whenever we need it. Even when assignments felt overwhelming, they helped us feel more confident and supported throughout the process. I’d definitely recommend AUT to anyone considering studying in New Zealand. And don't forget to make the most of the many programmes and opportunities AUT offers outside the classroom too!”
