Meet Carlos A Filipino International Student | Study With New Zealand

Carlos spent time travelling in New Zealand before his family encouraged him to study here. Now he’s studying at a Private Training Establishment in Auckland, New Zealand, completing a Certificate in Health and Wellbeing, Social and Community Services (Level 4). In the future, Carlos hopes to fulfil his childhood dream of working in the health sector, making a difference to people’s lives. 

The types of learning and our tutors allow us to express ourselves, even if we aren’t fluent in English. If you have a thought or an idea, you are encouraged to speak up. There is no criticism or judgement. This environment has really boosted my confidence. 

I go to lectures every day and it’s really collaborative. We are encouraged to ask questions in class and have discussions with our tutors and classmates. We also do group scenarios. What we learn is what the possible outcomes are, and what actions we can apply when we’re doing our practicum or in the workplace. What you achieve is hands-on experience. 

The quality of education in New Zealand is really good and globally recognised. It opens up a lot of new opportunities. For me, studying here is not too stressful – you can enjoy it. There is no hierarchy when it comes to managers or tutors, we are on the same level and respect each other. 

Before I came to New Zealand, I researched what to expect, like the weather. It’s more of a contrast to what we have in the Philippines, where we only have summer and rainy seasons. But here in New Zealand you can have four seasons in one day, which is new for me. New Zealand has beautiful scenery and mountains, and we are safe walking through the rural areas because there are no snakes here. All of the people are so welcoming and vibrant! 

The first time I arrived at school, my classmates were so loud saying “Oh welcome, welcome here!” They are so jolly in class. People welcome you in a positive way. All my classmates are my friends, they’re kind of like new sisters and brothers. 

There are a lot of nationalities in our class, with people from South Africa, India, Fiji, China, Taiwan – it feels like the United Nations! It is enlightening to learn about each other’s backgrounds and cultures. I am broadening my network and expanding my group of friends. 

In the morning, before starting our class, we do the karakia (Māori prayer), and then we study Māori culture and Pasifika culture. I know how to say my mihi (introduce myself in te reo Māori), and I have also learned about Te Tiriti o Waitangi – the foundational document of New Zealand as a nation. Establishing the relationship between Māori people and the British Crown. 

I like the New Zealand mountains and going for hikes. Last winter I went hiking up Mt Ruapehu and it was the first time I had experienced snow! I like visiting the beach too. In the Philippines we pay to visit the beach, so it is new for me to be able to enjoy the beach for free here. I have my own YouTube channel and I like to make videos of my travels, to showcase New Zealand’s scenery. When I began studying in New Zealand, I also made videos about my international student journey, and interviewed my friends about what they were expecting from their classmates and tutors, and what they expected to get from their New Zealand education. 

I’m the first one from my mother’s side to go to New Zealand. So my mother, and father are very proud of me. 

I have more confidence because my tutors and classmates collaborate, we always support each other. My New Zealand education has boosted my personality. I have gained more knowledge and skills, which has shaped me as a person and my wellbeing. 

I am dedicated to finishing my studies so that I can get a job and have the opportunity to give back to my family. After I graduate, I want to become a support worker. I want to be another helping hand for the aged care sector and for people with disabilities. This is something I am really passionate about.