Making a leap into something new is full of excitement and uncertainty. It is embracing these challenges which makes growth and opens a lot more opportunities and wonderful experiences.

I took up the position of Director of International Students at Roncalli College in October this year. I have had to learn a whole new industry, the school system, new surroundings, and the culture of the school. Changing jobs was full of excitement and nerves. I am incredibly grateful to be given this role as embracing new cultures and welcoming people into this great town are two of my favourite things. This change also came with insecurities such as will I get along with the team, can I do this job and missing old colleagues and the familiar of the known. But I am lucky, I have had the fortune of being raised in Timaru which has made my move to Roncalli College a lot easier as it is the same town and there were team members in the staff that I already knew.

The decision to study abroad is a whole other level. The courage of our international students to decide to leave their friends, families, and all they know, to go to a small Island on the other side of the world is truly an amazingly brave decision at such a young age. I have so much respect for our student’s courage to make this move. My biggest goal is to make sure that I make their time at Roncalli their best experience and worth the commitment they have made. It is a privilege to work with these students and I will encourage them to be part of our community, embrace the culture, ask questions and be involved with as many clubs and activities as they can.

I look forward to not only seeing these students grow as they embrace our unique kiwi culture, but also seeing Timaru keep evolving and embracing new cultures and members into our community. If you would like to be part of this journey and would like to host an international student, please contact us at c.homestay@roncalli.school.nz