Cheryl Teng

Moving to New Zealand was a “180 flip” for Cheryl Teng, but she couldn't imagine studying anywhere else. The Malaysian student wanted to experience a new culture overseas and after researching universities all over the world, Cheryl enrolled in a Certificate of Attainment in Foundation Studies at Waikato Pathways College.

“Studying Pathways taught me all the study skills I needed to start university,” she says. “Without that foundation, I think I would have struggled with referencing, academic writing and formal language – the course was the perfect way to prepare for my degree.”

Cheryl says the small classes made the course really enjoyable, allowing her to feel comfortable straight away.

“We had a lot of international students and the teachers were always willing to help out with any questions we had. The class bonded very quickly; I’ve have kept in touch with a group of friends from the College.”

“The highlight of my time at university has been experiencing the student culture. Back in Malaysia, some things can be quite conservative, but here you can speak your mind. It’s really nice to be able to think outside the box without that constraint.”