Amidst the bustle of students flocking to the Vodafone Fiji Orientation Program at The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Laucala Campus, stood a trio from Ratu Finau Secondary School quietly observing the crowd.
Timaima Tawake, Mere Waqanisau and Mareca Diloi had just arrived in Suva City from the islands and were a mix of excitement and nerves at the thought of beginning university studies.
I am here to excel in my studies and help my parents support our family.
Diloi shared
As the eldest child, Diloi said she was aware of the expectations of her family and community.
It is an achievement in itself for us to make it into university and I want to make sure that I am prepared and aware of all the services available to me.
This Orientation session organized by USP is beneficial to all first-year students as we are taken on campus and city tours, can meet with academic staff to discuss our programs and can do our ID card printing, change of programs and other services all at one location.
Diloi
The Vodafone Fiji USP Orientation programme at Laucala Campus will run until 21 March 2025 to help students transition smoothly into tertiary studies.
Each week will focus on specific areas of higher learning such as student support services, career, leadership and mental health workshops, cultural arts, dance and film, and networking sessions such as a social mixer event and food fair.
USP Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia encouraged students to persevere throughout their studies.
At USP, we’re guided by a compelling vision to shape Pacific futures by empowering students, staff, and alumni to become inspirational agents of positive change, leading to innovative, cohesive, resilient, and sustainable communities.
Our mission is equally powerful as it means we provide you not only with academic excellence but also with the skills and understanding to tackle the unique challenges and opportunities of our region.
Professor Ahluwalia
USP also conducted Orientation sessions at regional campuses throughout its 12 member countries.
Petina Akolo from Tonga Campus said she had decided in high school to pursue studies at USP to achieve her aspirations.
I want to venture into a career in weather broadcasting and I believe USP is the perfect place to achieve this.
The Orientation session has made me feel more prepared for campus life and I am excited to begin studies.
Petina Akolo
Vanuatu student Duddley Iautu said he chose USP due to its global recognition, regionalism and quality programs.
Ever since I was a little boy, I would always be in workshops working on little projects and this shaped my passion for Engineering.
I knew I wanted to study at USP because of its reputation and I am happy to have enrolled in the Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) program.
Duddley Iautu
The first-year student from Aniwa Island in the Tafea province attended the Orientation session to familiarize himself with the University and its facilities.
New and continuing students must also register for courses online via https://studentsols.usp.ac.fj/
For further assistance, students can reach out via email to contactus@usp.ac.fj