Hautahi Kingi - scholarship student
Name: Hautahi Kingi
Iwi: Ngārauru, Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi
Occupation: Tertiary Student
Lives: Maxwell/Wellington
Q: How did you find out about the scholarships you applied for?
A: My mum was really proactive and pointed out scholarships to me. With my parents' help I received my first Māori scholarship for a private intermediate school in Whanganui, which built the basis for my future in tertiary study.
Q: What made you decide to study?
A: At school, it was sort of expected that students pursue tertiary study. I knew very early on that I was capable of it and wanted to go. I enjoyed maths at school but decided that I'd rather applied maths and that's how I ended up studying towards a Bachelor of Science, majoring in maths and statistics, and a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in economics and finance.
Q: What scholarships did you receive at university?
A: My first scholarship was the Victoria University school leaver scholarship for academic excellence. That was $3,000. Then I received the PricewaterhouseCoopers Aspire Scholarship, which runs over four years depending on your grades. It covers 30 percent of the fees, which increases over the years of study. PricewaterhouseCoopers also offers an internship as part of the scholarship. And I got a scholarship from the Māori Education Trust for Māori in undergraduate study.
Q: Did your scholarships cover all your expenses?
A: They have helped immensely and allowed me to work less and concentrate on my studies – as well as mentoring other students, and having time for sports.
Q: What would you tell other Māori about applying for scholarships?
A: Give it a go! There is a surprising number of scholarships available that don't have any applicants, because a lot of people think they haven't got a chance. A good way to find out about scholarships is the career adviser at school or the Breakout database.
Q: What tips can you give someone about scholarship applications?
A: A big part in being successful in the application process is the ability to prove you have been involved in the community. So if you do undertake extra curricular activities - such as doing collections for charities, being the school prefect, captain of the sports team, or head of the choir - then definitely include these.
Q: How important is the community aspect once you get a scholarship?
A: Even when you are scholarship receiver, it's essential to show you are giving back to your community. Often, scholarships are about the all-round promise, so it is important to keep a good balance between study and extracurricular activities such as sport, music or something like public speaking.
