Student story

Originally from Thailand, Jay Watphisit came to New Zealand nine years ago and completed high school here. He chose to study at Otago Polytechnic because he needed to improve his academic English so could follow his passion and study Information Technology.

“I had already studied quite of bit of English through high school here, however, my academic English, particularly reading and writing, still weren’t at the level I needed to be comfortable completing a degree. So I chose to study the New Zealand Certificate in English Language to help give me the skills I needed to be successful.”

Jay describes studying at Otago Polytechnic as a “great experience”. He is now in the final year of his Bachelor of Information Technology degree and looks forward to graduating at the end of the year.

“I gained a lot of experience in the IT industry through my degree. I got to meet a lot of people in the industry, learn how to study independently, and also do group work. It was hard at times but the lecturers were on hand if I needed them. I found it different from studying in Thailand. Here you are really encouraged to find your own way and take control of your own learning.”

“In the future, I hope to get a job in New Zealand in the IT industry. I really like New Zealand’s natural scenery and I know so many people here.”