“Based on my courses so far, I am very hopeful that my programme will help build my confidence to deal with future challenges in my professional career regarding current trends in my work field. Experiencing EIT’s multi-cultural environment will further enrich my interpersonal skills.”

Tell us a bit about your background and why you decided to study at EIT?
I come from a hospitality background. I worked for a decade in several 5-star hotels as a manager in my home country, Chile. After a long hiatus in my professional career dedicated to raising my three children, I decided to come back to the workforce. To update and propel my current status, I chose to pursue the EIT Master of Applied Management.

What do you enjoy best about your programme?
I really enjoy the variety of up-to-date courses. Each one so far has allowed me to explore my experience and skills but also given me new knowledge. One of my favourite courses to date is Leadership, which combines personal reflections and different styles of leadership, including a Māori perspective, all of which I expect to apply in my future employment.

How do you hope your programme and experience at EIT will help you in your future career?
Based on my courses so far, I am very hopeful that my programme will help build my confidence to deal with future challenges in my professional career regarding current trends in my work field. Experiencing EIT’s multi-cultural environment will further enrich my interpersonal skills.

What are the top three job-specific skills or areas of knowledge you have gained while studying your programme?
Regarding my future career development, I believe the knowledge and skills I have developed in sustainability, innovation, and leadership will prove to be of great help.

Have you taken part in any experiential learning opportunities?
We have had several workshops covering a variety of topics. One of the most interesting so far was organized by EIT Industry Partnerships Manager, Brendon Hickey called Mahi Heke Mai – Working Futures. The panel of guest speakers was very interesting, providing real, up to date insight from recruiters, workers, and experts in the New Zealand job market.

How do you see your career progressing once you graduate?
I hope to go back to my old field of work in luxury hotels but with a new, refreshed approach as to how to approach businesses in 2025 and beyond. I definitely feel better equipped to accomplish this goal. It has been a great experience so far at EIT for me!

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to explore Auckland and its surrounding beautiful nature areas during the weekends with my family. I also enjoy weekly Pilates classes and barbecues with friends and neighbours.

What are some of the highlights of your time at EIT so far?
Among the great parts of my time at EIT I can mention the multicultural students’ group, the friendly staff and professional lecturers, the convenient location of the Auckland campus, the up-to-date curriculum and, one of the main highlights was the new student visit to the Marae at the beginning of my masters programme.

What advice would you give to students thinking of studying at EIT in the future?

Make sure the curriculum load is relevant to your future work expectations. Ask all the questions you have about everything, from the initial enrolment process to assessment instructions. All staff members will do their best to help you with any doubts or challenges you may have.

Take advantage of all the extracurricular experiences that EIT offers. They are not only good for your professional knowledge, but they will also help you to expand your understanding of New Zealand.