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EIT valedictorian Poppy scored the first job she applied for

April 11, 2019

Poppy Savage has left Hawke’s Bay to move to Wellington.

Why did you choose EIT?

After high school I didn’t really know what to do and I tried lots of different things. After I had visited an early childhood centre, I decided to study the Bachelor of Teaching – Early Childhood Education. The reason to study at EIT was that it provides practice-oriented degrees. I particularly enjoyed the small group sizes that facilitated discussions and working together.

Tell us about the moment that you were told that you were chosen as this year’s valedictorian?

I was overwhelmed, excited and honoured. I try not to think about the moment when I will go onto the stage and speak. I will aim to stay calm and take my time.

What was the highlight of your time at EIT?

It was the aspect of knowing everyone and being able to work closely together. We always supported each other and communicated on an interpersonal level. The lecturers were great and very supportive, without exception.

You are living in Wellington now? How did that come about?

I always wanted to move to Wellington and at the end of my studies I got a job which made the move easier of course. It was the first job I applied for.

Are you the only teacher in your family?

For now, yes.

Can you describe the best thing about your work?

We have a great and passionate team. I enjoy having the knowledge from studying and applying it to my role. Working with children can present its challenges, like any workplace, and emotionally this can be tricky. However, I wake up every morning excited to go to work because of how rewarding, humbling, fun and amazing these challenges and experiences are. 


What are you doing in your spare time?

I recently started to play football. I enjoy art, going to the gym and for walks, op-shopping and meeting with friends. And I’m still discovering Wellington, it’s a great place to live and there is so much to do.

What are your little pleasures in life?

Eating good food and drinking good “drinks” with friends.

Do you have any goals or plans for the future?

At the moment I’m super happy where I am but I’m aiming to get my full certification as a registered teacher. The great thing is that my job gives us the opportunity of professional development. I want to travel and live in different places across New Zealand. And who knows, one day, I might open my own early childhood centre. I will see how far the job can take me.