Aleisha Kamsoo celebrates graduation with family and community at heart

For Aleisha Kamsoo, walking across the graduation stage held great significance, not just for herself, but for her entire family.

“As I crossed the graduation stage, I thought of my parents and my grandparents, whose sacrifices have given me the privilege to be able to study higher education. I carry my family’s name and legacy with me wherever I go, and I will hope that this milestone has made them proud,” she said.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Pathway to Teaching Secondary) from Western Sydney University is not just a personal achievement for Aleisha; it shows her siblings that they can do whatever they set their mind to and that with determination, anything is achievable.

Originally from New Zealand, the Liverpool resident fondly recalls her mother, a dedicated teacher, and the impact she had on her students.

“I distinctly remember when we would be out in public during the school holidays and her students would spot her, excitedly calling out her name and come over to chat, which always made her day. This showed me how much of a positive impact teachers can have on their students who might not have a loving family or safe environment to go home to after school.”

As a member of the Pasifika community, Aleisha’s culture emphasises the value of serving others. Her mother’s commitment to her students greatly inspired her own passion for teaching and has fuelled her journey throughout university.

Currently in her first year of the Master of Teaching Secondary, Aleisha balances two jobs, which she says has been quite challenge so far, but rewarding.

“I aspire to work in schools and gain hands on experience in the teaching field, however, I have learnt so much about myself and my interests throughout the last few years and would love to branch out into new careers and possibly continue my studies after completing my master’s in education.”

Pursuing higher education has opened doors for Aleisha that she never imagined possible.

“I’ve received job and travel opportunities that would not have been available to me without my university experience. I’ve developed essential skills such as time management while balancing assignments with work and social life, understanding deadlines and working with peers to reach one common goal. These challenges have improved my character and fostered a maturity that has positively impacted other areas of my life.”

Aleisha's involvement in the University’s Pasifika Achievement To Higher Education (PATHE) program and the Island Made Universities Association (IMUA) student club has been transformative.

“My experiences with PATHE and IMUA have brought me closer to my peers and allowed me to create lifelong friendships with people that I now call family. Being able to build such an amazing sense of community has by far been my most significant achievement.”

Reflecting on her time at the University, Aleisha emphasises the support network she accessed.

“The support goes far beyond academic and into mental health and wellbeing, which has always been at the forefront of the student experience. I have had a great experience at the University during some of the most difficult stages in my life when I needed support other than academic.”

“The student community has been amazing. Classes, vUWS discussion boards, Western Life and even social media groups are full of Western students who have a strong sense community wherever we go. I have met so many people from all corners of the world and although we have different reasons for being here, we all value higher education and hope to make a difference in the world in some way, shape or form, which is a remarkable thing to be a part of.”

ENDS

30 October 2024

Media Unit