The recent three-week trip to the United States proved to be an enlightening experience for Year 12 students from Queen Victoria School. The group, accompanied by parents, guardians, and teachers, departed for California on December 7 and returned on December 30, 2024.
Student Setoki Butukoro expressed how the journey impacted him. He remarked, “Travelling to the USA with my brothers was a blessing. We encountered a different side of the world, filled with opportunities and advanced technology. It has motivated me to take my studies more seriously and strive to achieve my dreams.”
Another student, Ioane Qalo, described America as a unique environment, abundant in educational opportunities. He recalled their meeting with a Senator at the California State Capitol, where they received encouragement to dream big for their futures and for their country.
Team leader Ulai Butukoro highlighted the trip’s success, crediting it to the support of parents, teachers, the USA QVSOB Association, the Ministry of Education, the US Embassy, and the Koroitamana family. He noted that the students explored several esteemed universities, including the likes of America River College, St Mary’s College, Sonoma State University, San Francisco State University, and UC Berkeley, which ranks among the world’s top five universities.
The visit to these institutions was particularly thrilling for the students, especially viewing the robotics museum at UC Berkeley, which ignited their enthusiasm. They also toured the globally recognized tech giants Apple and Google in Silicon Valley, further broadening their perspective on innovation.
In closing, Butukoro expressed gratitude to the CEO of Divine Fijian Health Care, Poasa Koroitamana, as well as various community groups and churches in California that supported the trip. He emphasized the transformative nature of this experience, encouraging students to expand their horizons and set their sights on ambitious goals.
This visit underscores the importance of global exposure in education and the positive impact it can have on young minds. By embracing opportunities for growth and learning, students are inspired to reach new heights and contribute to their communities.
In summary, this trip not only provided the students with information on higher education but also instilled a sense of aspiration, inspiring them to dream bigger for their futures. It serves as a reminder of how educational experiences can transform lives.
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