Student Voice
Hana Tran
Vietnam
"Since being an international student at PHS, I studied Bachelor of Engineering and Bachelor of Science conjoint degrees at The University of Auckland for one year in 2019. Now I have switched to a Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science), which is a first year pathway to Medicine, Optometry, Pharmacy or Medical Imaging. I am one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a doctor.
I could never say thank you enough to my school teachers, especially our international student department teachers, who shaped me the way I am today. In 2015, I started year 11 and struggled with English. With their patience, support, and guidance, I managed to overcome the language barrier and started to explore all the possibilities and opportunities for my career choice. My sister, Amie Tran, also spent her most enjoyable and meaningful three years at Papatoetoe High School. Amie started as a child and graduated as a mature young woman. My family and I love and appreciate our school for everything it has brought to us. My dad is always proud every time he thinks of how he was welcomed at our school during his trip to New Zealand back in 2017. Moreover, it was an honour for our family to have Principal Couillault and Mrs Waru (International Director) visiting our hometown in Vietnam in 2019. It was a memorable time that my family will never forget.
Thank you so much Papatoetoe High School for inspiring me to be my best and for always being there to guide me when I needed help. Having you in my life opened my eyes to my own inner strength and has motivated me to become and do more.
Thank you with all my heart, truly and sincerely. "
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Cathrine Holst
Denmark
“I’d been told about the hospitality ingrained in kiwi culture, but I hadn’t thought that the genuine interest in me would be as clear as it was…….I was nurtured with both kindness and empowerment. The support from the school gave me confidence and brought me further than I’d ever imagined.”
Rin Nakagawa
Term 1, 2018
“First, I was very nervous but it disappeared soon because I could make a lot of friends and teachers were so kind. I spent a very wonderful 2 months in Papatoetoe High School!!!”
Edward Vu
Vietnam
“Having the opportunity to be a student at Papatoetoe High School was a really memorable experience for me. At Pap High, I made friends with people from different cultures which is a big step for someone like me who wanted to form a connection with the world. I learned a lot more about this wonderful New Zealand, the kind people and the amazing environment. I highly recommend anyone to come to New Zealand to study and especially to join Papatoetoe High School for their wonderful teachers and friendly students.
Thank you, Papatoetoe High School, for being part of my precious memories and being helping hands in the growth of international students like me. Thank you for everything.”