Kia ora koutou,
I am very honoured to be one of the recipients of the Rotary Scholarship in 2020. I’d like to say a big thank you for the support from the Rotary Club of Papakura, it has been a massive help. I have just completed my first year in a Bachelor of Science Majoring in Microbiology at the Auckland University of Technology. For those who don’t know, microbiology is the study of microorganisms which includes bacteria, viruses, fungi etc. I gained a great desire to learn about the causes and implications of microorganisms so I can positively contribute towards research that is a part of finding solutions for global disruptions such as the Covid-19 Pandemic.
I am very honoured to be one of the recipients of the Rotary Scholarship in 2020. I’d like to say a big thank you for the support from the Rotary Club of Papakura, it has been a massive help. I have just completed my first year in a Bachelor of Science Majoring in Microbiology at the Auckland University of Technology. For those who don’t know, microbiology is the study of microorganisms which includes bacteria, viruses, fungi etc. I gained a great desire to learn about the causes and implications of microorganisms so I can positively contribute towards research that is a part of finding solutions for global disruptions such as the Covid-19 Pandemic.
My university experience thus far has been amazing. I feel I have learned and experienced so much in a short amount of time. The depth and detail of what I have learned about the world around us from the smallest atoms, to the oldest microbes found in the deep sea, to the ancient dinosaurs that roamed the earth millions of years ago, is far beyond anything I’ve learned before. There has never been a dull day or one that is the same as the other. Indeed, the workload has been intense and can be excruciatingly overwhelming but I can pledge that every moment is worth it. I averaged an A grade or 8.0 GPA in Semester 1 and I am currently waiting for my Semester 2 results.
With school on pause and the current restrictions in place for Auckland, my plans for this summer is to relax and enjoy time with whānau. I do have a part-time job as an essential worker so I will most likely be spending time working in the supermarket. Hopefully, the gyms will be open up soon so I can get my gains on but for now, at-home training will do. As for next year, I will continue with my studies and give it my all. With everything that’s happening and changing in the world today, I have gained more appreciation for what I have been blessed with. As a Māori Pasifika young woman, I am motivated to make the most out of every opportunity that comes my way and continue to learn and grow every day. Once again, a huge thank you to the Rotary Club for all your support, I wouldn’t be where I am without your generosity.
With school on pause and the current restrictions in place for Auckland, my plans for this summer is to relax and enjoy time with whānau. I do have a part-time job as an essential worker so I will most likely be spending time working in the supermarket. Hopefully, the gyms will be open up soon so I can get my gains on but for now, at-home training will do. As for next year, I will continue with my studies and give it my all. With everything that’s happening and changing in the world today, I have gained more appreciation for what I have been blessed with. As a Māori Pasifika young woman, I am motivated to make the most out of every opportunity that comes my way and continue to learn and grow every day. Once again, a huge thank you to the Rotary Club for all your support, I wouldn’t be where I am without your generosity.
Ngā mihi nui,
Georgia-Rae Jones