Saijun Xu

Albeit only 18, Saijun Xu from Shangai is ambitious. With a goal to one day be Chief Executive Officer for a large company, she has chosen an international education as the first step – and has chosen New Zealand, starting with secondary studies at Otumoetai College in Tauranga.

One particular highlight for Saijun has been the way New Zealand education encourages fresh thinking and open communication. “It has been very interesting to study here – for example, the open discussion with my teachers, free thinking. You can express your own ideas. I have been able to carry out more practical experiments in Physics and Chemistry. Teachers explain the subject material clearly for ESOL students and offer individual assistance.”

Saijun has found that the resources available support this environment. “Otumoetai is a well organised and presented school, and provides a pleasant environment to study. There are lots of activities offered to the students like lunchtime concerts.”

New Zealand’s natural environment has also been a major attraction. “Tauranga is ‘Pure New Zealand’ – unpolluted, fresh air, beautiful harbour, beach and mountains. My homestay family are warm and caring, have made me feel part of the family….There are few Chinese people in Tauranga so I have to speak English which is a real benefit.

“I like the quiet, no rush and less traffic in Tauranga…yet for a smaller city Tauranga has a very good bus service. Bus drivers are very helpful.”

Having achieved an A Bursary in her secondary school examinations, Saijun is now continuing her University studies in Auckland, with plans to complete first a Bachelor degree in Commerce, followed by the Masters programme.