Student Spotlight

Kikka

Year 11

International Student (Japan)

• How have you enjoyed Whitby Collegiate and what stood out to you the most?

  My school life at Whitby Collegiate was awesome and I got to make a lot of memories and new experiences! This school life is really different from my Japanese school life so I was very surprised at first. It was fun to find out the differences in each other's lives.

  Also, I could learn how to communicate in English and I know it’s hard to express what I think in a foreign language, but I believe it’s important to try to express it. I also know about other countries' cultures. I’ve never been overseas before so it was really interesting and a precious time for me!

• What is the best memory you’ve made at Whitby?

  I have a lot of memories. My best memory was the cultural performance at Whitby. I saw it on the first day I came to NZ. They were the first students I met. Even though it was a practice, it was so wonderful and inspiring that I became very interested in it, so I observed the practices at every lunch break. The girls were very gorgeous and pretty. Then I saw their recital at Porirua - it was more amazing and impressive than the practice. I’m really thankful to the girls and Ms Sauvao because they accepted my observation.

• For other exchange students, is there any advice you would give them?

  All the Whitby Collegiate students are very kind and get along very well so if you’re worried about your school life at this school, don’t worry! The reason I can say that is because I’m not good at English but despite this, all of the people, teachers and students in this school have still helped and accepted me so I could spend a really good time here.

  I hope you’ll enjoy studying abroad in this school!

• Which subject has been the most interesting to you?

  I think all of the classes are very interesting and very fun for me. I especially like PE class. It was my first class at Whitby Collegiate School so it’s a very memorable experience for me. The classmates are very kind and I enjoyed playing some sports with them. Also, I like DVC and Art class because in those classes, I was exposed to some New Zealand Art culture. 

  I'm really grateful to all of my class teachers and students!

• Tell me about your experience playing rugby with Jailah V's team?

  That is one of my best memories. I am really grateful to Jailah and all of the BVC girls rugby team members because they accepted me as one of them and were very kind, and when I couldn’t understand what I should do, they would explain to me.  They are really strong and have great skills. I really respect them and am proud to be a part of their team. Also, I’m happy to win and get a gold medal with them. I didn’t know I could help my team win but it was a really good experience for me. Lastly, a big thank you to Jailah’s family for driving me to the practice.