Stephanie Pasion
Educational Assistant, Toronto Catholic District School Board, Toronto, Canada
Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Primary)
For Stephanie Pasion, coming to Auckland as an international student from Canada to complete a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning was a highlight.
“I chose AUT in Auckland to continue my education as an aspiring teacher, because AUT’s programme offered more hands-on teaching opportunities through both teaching practicums, with a total of four weeks of full control in both practicums.”
The people she met were what she loved most about her time in Aotearoa New Zealand.
“Aside from the wonderful connections I made with other international and domestic students, Dr Eunice Gaerlan, Robin Staples and Dr Ross Bernay all provided great support towards my educational and personal growth at AUT. I had some difficulties during my first practicum because I was placed in my least preferred age group, but it turned out to be one of my favourite teaching experiences yet. Eunice took the time to do weekly check-ins with me through emails and phone calls, while Robin took the time to visit me in person to give me tips and strategies to implement in the classroom.
“However, my most memorable highlight of AUT was seeing and learning from a Filipina programme leader, Dr Eunice Gaerlan. As a Filipina myself, I grew up with the lack of leadership representation of my culture in my educational and work settings, so it was an encouraging and motivating experience to see someone from my culture in leadership.”
A renewed passion for teaching
Now back in Canada, Stephanie continues to work as an educational assistant for the Toronto Catholic District School Board while she waits for her teaching license.
“What I love most about this role is working with the students and building strong one-on-one rapports with them.”
She loves applying the knowledge from her time in New Zealand in her role now.
“My experience at AUT and in New Zealand has helped me re-find my inner teaching passion. While burnout is inevitable in this field, throughout my studies and the support I received from the AUT staff, I’ve learnt to appreciate the small moments in our field, which helps me complete the workday with a smile.”
Advice for other students
Stephanie, who graduated from AUT at the end of 2024, has some great advice for other students, especially other Canadians heading to Auckland to train to become a teacher.
“If you’re coming to Aotearoa New Zealand as a CANTEACH student, make time to get to know the country and yourself on your own too! It’s an amazing experience to build friendships with others, and I’ve met my forever friends through this programme.”
She herself loved her time as a teacher education student.
“Being an AUT student in New Zealand has challenged me to experience life independently, to be present and practise gratitude. There’s more to this experience than the cohort – take the time to find your passion for education and life in this beautiful country.”
