Meet Carlos A Filipino International Student | Study With New Zealand
Carlos is a student from the Philippines, and he’s been studying in New Zealand for. On Thursday October 31, Carlos will take time out from his studies to share his New Zealand study experience in a live Question and Answer session. You’re invited to join us.
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.
Tell us about New Zealand tutors and the learning environment.
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.
What are the types of learning in your course?
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.
How would you describe the education in New Zealand?
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.
What did you know about New Zealand before you came here?
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!
What were your first impressions of people in New Zealand and did you feel welcomed?
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.
What surprised you most when you came to New Zealand?
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.
Have you learned about Māori culture since being in New Zealand?
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.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
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.
What do your parents think about you studying in New Zealand?
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.
How has studying in New Zealand impacted you?
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.
What do you hope to do in the future?
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.
Do you want to ask Carlos some questions about his experience as an international student in New Zealand so far?
About the contributors
Education New Zealand (ENZ) raises awareness of New Zealand as a study destination.