Excitement and apprehension filled the air as students and parents prepared for a new chapter in tertiary education. For many, this transition marks a significant milestone in their academic and personal lives, filled with hope and new opportunities. While some students eagerly anticipate their journey at the University of the South Pacific (USP), others grapple with the daunting challenges of adapting to a new environment and the unknown.
Among these students is Emma Ioane, who has traveled from Kiribati. She reflects on the cultural differences she encountered upon arrival. “When we came here, it was complicated at first to study the map of the campus. Sometimes we got lost,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of relying on others for guidance during these initial challenges.
Prashneel Reddy from Lautoka expressed gratitude to his parents for overcoming financial struggles to provide him with educational opportunities. He acknowledged the difficulties of living away from home, citing high rental prices that add to the financial burden on middle-class families.
Emotional moments were also shared by parents, such as Disala Leqeua, who detailed the societal and financial hurdles she faced to send her daughter to university. She expressed pride in her daughter’s achievements, especially her successful completion of Form 7, which paved the way for her entrance into USP.
The ongoing 2025 USP orientation is helping to ease the transition for many first-time students, offering important insights and support as they embark on their academic journeys. The experiences shared by these students highlight not only their resilience but also the collective strength found in familial and community support. The narrative is hopeful, signaling that despite the challenges, the journey toward education can lead to transformative opportunities for both students and their families.
In summary, as students like Emma, Prashneel, and many others begin their studies at USP, they carry both dreams and challenges, underscoring the importance of perseverance and support in achieving educational goals.
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