Student Stories

Beauty’s story

On my first day in NZ Uncle Ben met me and my family at the airport and took us to our motel.  From then until now he is still part of our family. Student Links always helped me every time I needed them no matter when or where.

Last year Uncle Ben and Aunty Elspeth took a bunch of us to Springfield for a weekend.  We got to know each other and made new friends and had a lot of fun.  We went horse riding, jet boating and lots of walking. Second term holiday a few of us went to Hamner Springs with Uncle Ben and we stayed 2 nights.  We had great fun, we cooked roast dinners, made pancake breakfasts, went to the hot pools and did more walking!! We had lots of fun together.

When Uncle Ben is away Auntie Elspeth takes care of all of us instead of him, she is nice like our mum.  Always gives us good advice and take care of us very well.

This is my last year in New Zealand, I want to thank Student Links millions of times especially Uncle Ben who always encourage me whenever I feel sad or bad.  I remember at the beginning of this year my school had an Opening Mass which is where the College leaders will be given badges for their positions. Parents were invited. All the house leaders brought their parents along.

Except for me International Student Leader.  I was on the stage already when I saw a familiar figure at the back - Uncle Ben.  He came and brought me a lovely card from Auntie Elspeth to congratulate me! When I walked down, my friend said "Hey I saw your 'DAD' take a picture of you.  Is he the one with glasses and quite black skin?'  I said "Yes!'  and gave her a big smile. This was one of my most valued moments I will never forget. My life in New Zealand would not be this successful without help from Student Links. They always there for me.  Thank you, you have been amazing to me".

Sarunthorn Akkavutwanich (Beauty)