I am sending you this 'letter' to give you an update since I studied at Newlands College and how it has impacted my life.

I had the opportunity to study at Newlands College in 2010. Although it was a short time, it was a very enriching experience as a whole. I had the opportunity to meet many people and cultures thanks to the diversity on campus. Through the homestay program I was able to experience life as a Kiwi. And when it comes to classes, I loved that I had the option to choose subjects of my personal interest.

Years later, in 2021 I obtained my medical degree. I emphasize the fact that I come from a low income country, and being in New Zealand made me realize facts that had previously gone unnoticed - especially quality of life. This made me develop an interest in improving my society and taking action. One of my most outstanding experiences was being able to work in a rural community. This was a huge eye-opener; I realized that things I took for granted were unattainable for them - to name one: water supply. I made it my goal to strengthen ties with the community, carry out educational talks, health prevention campaigns, and a  research project on the most frequent diseases that affected the community and how to prevent them.

Currently, I work as a professor at a private university. I teach two subjects: histology and Medical English - thanks to the opportunity provided by Newlands College I was able to substantially improve my English, and eventually be able to work teaching future doctors. I continue to actively collaborate in scientific research in order to better the quality of life in my country; and I also make it my priority to work with a non-profit organization, where we provide free healthcare for vulnerable populations.

In the near future, I aspire to study a master's degree to enhance my knowledge in research and preventive medicine. 

Without a doubt, the entire experience at Newlands College, from the educational to the cultural aspect, helped me become the person I am today. I am very grateful to have participated in this experience with you, and I hope that you will continue to change the lives of people all around the world.

Dr Jessica Fabini

Student of 2010

"During my stay, Newlands College provided me with many great extracurricular opportunities such as programming competitions, debating and organising a TEDx event. I was incredibly well  supported by professional, knowledgeable and caring teachers throughout my school journey."

John (Xiaowen) Zhang from China

"I am an international student from Vietnam. Newlands College was a great experience for me.  During my time at the school I made a lot of friends and had really fantastic teachers. They guided me through my high school years and helped me become the person I am today.  As a result of my success at Newlands College, I am now studying at tertiary level in New Zealand."

Harry (Dinh Hien) Vu from Vietnam

"I have had a good time at Newlands College with friends, internationals and also the domestics. All are very nice and friendly. School has high quality activities and I had a very good time at the camping trip I did in Year 11 with different people I met from around the world. The support of the International team at school is always available when we need it. School appreciates every success that students make by giving them prizes and awards each year to encourage them more."

Libie (Phan Quynh Huong) Nguyen from Vietnam

"Time has flown so fast in the past two years; it’s really sad to say goodbye to wonderful people at Newlands College who meant so much to me. The diversity of Newlands College students is amazing and everyone gets plenty of support to adapt to the New Zealand school system really quickly. All the staff constantly provided support and showed consideration for international students. The teachers and my homestay family always checked up on me about workload, friends and every little matter that I might struggle with, and this made me feel like I belonged in school, which was an amazing experience. Overall, the support at Newlands College is first class."

Soyoon Lim from Korea

"I have had lots of memorable times at Newlands College. The students are awesome, and the teachers are so enthusiastic and dedicated. During two years studying at Newlands College, I have learned a lot of new things and met really good people who have all helped me to grow. In Vietnam, I did not even know how to take the bus by myself, but since moving to New Zealand I have learnt how to organise myself and catch a bus to get to school on time. I have also learnt how to manage my time to complete assignments before the due dates. I have found myself to be a lot more mature over the past two years. The school and my host family have helped me a lot and comforted me because I have to live far away from my family. I am so grateful to Newlands College and everyone who made “a Ruby” like today. I appreciate all things I have learnt and experienced since I have been here."

Ruby (Do Minh Ngoc) Nguyen from Vietnam

"I had a good experience in Newlands College. My three years here have been fun. I hung out with friends and participated in school’s activities. People were nice, and teachers were encouraging and very understanding."

Diana (Sreypich) Vong from Cambodia

"I have had a lot of good times with domestic friends. People are very nice to me. School has heaps of activities for us to be involved in as well. School has all the equipment and everything we need for study. Newlands College is supportive with everything we need or even personal things. Newlands College is very good at acknowledging student successes, such as having awards for students who gain a lot of NCEA Excellence credits. I love how Mrs Barbara always keeps asking if everything is alright which made me feel good, and that shows me how they care and worry about us. It is so easy to get to school as there are many buses to and from school for students' comfort."

Woonsen (Punyaporn) Phansombun from Thailand

"Even though I was only at Newlands College for one year, I had a really awesome time. I met a lot of good friends and I never felt bored during school time because Newlands College has so many activities that I could join and enjoy. I performed guitar in a school band, as well as being a solo performer, and I joined a dance group which was really, really fun. I had a brilliant time at Newlands College and I am glad I chose to come here."

Max (Makoto) Giga from Japan