Kahlen Gray

1st-year student, Bachelor of Education (Primary Teaching)

She felt nervous about starting university, says Kahlen Gray who began her AUT journey by participating in the five-week UniPrep programme over summer before starting her Bachelor of Education (Primary Teaching).

“With the daunting prospect of university constantly on my mind and everything about uni being new, I decided that enrolling in UniPrep would give me a solid head start. I knew it would help me settle in more confidently while also allowing me to make friends, including others who might be in my course.”

She appreciated the many aspects of university life UniPrep introduced her to, says Kahlen who is of Samoan descent, hailing from Apia, Faleula and Satupaitea, and of Māori descent from the Ngai Tūhoe iwi.

“UniPrep eased my stress significantly because the programme took the time to introduce Canva, Microsoft 365 and other new applications we would be using, as well as what uni assignments would look like and what would be required of me. I also enjoyed meeting new people and making plenty of friends. Additionally, working with the UniPrep navigators was a great experience; they were incredibly friendly and supportive.

“I’d honestly recommend UniPrep to everyone who is feeling anxious about university. I felt much more prepared and confident when I started my education degree compared to many of my classmates. Because UniPrep was held at the AUT South Campus, the same campus as my degree, it was easier and more comfortable for me to find my way around. I felt much better starting my first classes because I was already familiar with the environment.”

Passionate about empowering others
After completing UniPrep at the start of the year, Kahlen is now enrolled in a Bachelor of Education (Primary Teaching) to help her achieve her long-held dream of becoming a teacher, supported by an AUT Find Your Greatness Scholarship.

“Teaching has always been my passion because I love helping people, and I believe that everyone has a unique purpose, often revealed through their gifts and talents.”

While she still has two more years of study ahead of her, she already has a clear idea how she sees her future.

“I aspire to work in a field where I can nurture, shepherd and inspire individuals to reach their full potential and become all they’re meant to be. My goal as a teacher is to nurture and guide children, helping them uncover their purpose and achieve their aspirations. I hope to inspire them along their journey, empowering them to realise all they can be.”

An enjoyable experience
Kahlen says meeting people who share similar purposes and inspirations is what she has enjoyed most about her studies so far.

“Studying alongside others who are passionate about supporting children has truly inspired me and helped me form wonderful friendships. I’ve also found it fascinating to explore a person’s development and understand why they are the way they are. This aligns with my goals as a teacher as I believe everyone deserves love and respect, especially since some individuals may need it more than we realise.

“Additionally, I really love participating in the teaching practicums that are part of my degree. Being hands-on while studying is incredibly enjoyable because it enables me to apply what I've learnt in real-world settings.”

She also appreciates being able to fit study around the rest of her life.

“Having two or three classes a week has been incredibly enjoyable, as it provides a more manageable schedule for me. This flexibility encourages my personal accountability and allows me to balance my studies with other aspects of my life more effectively.”