International Stories

Discover what it’s really like to study at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) through the experiences of our international students and graduates.

From arriving in a new country to building careers and lifelong connections, these stories highlight the journeys, challenges, and successes of students who have chosen to study with us in Southland and Queenstown.

Every student's journey is different. Here are just a few of the stories from international students currently studying at SIT.

Student Stories

These stories reflect the real experiences of international students as they adapt to life in New Zealand, explore new opportunities, and work towards their academic goals.


Southern Polytechnics re-sign MOU to continue collaboration in Building Apprentice training
The MOU signed at SIT on April 15th, is the continuation of an agreement signed in 2025, which saw the two polytechnics successfully unite for the delivery of work-based learning for building...
MP for Northland looks at SIT’s HyFlex delivery mode
Mr McCallum is involved with assisting his local polytechnic, NorthTec, with their plan to return to independence again in 2027 and is working closely with MP for Invercargill and Minister for...
Southern Cross Nursing Scholarship Programme Launches at SIT
A new partnership between the Southern Cross Health Trust and Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) is offering student nurses in Southland unparalleled support during their studies and clinical...
Students arrive for 2025 SIT academic year
Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) campuses in Gore, Christchurch, Balclutha (Telford), Queenstown and Invercargill were a hive of activity this week as they welcomed students during O-Week...
Troy Gregg-Schofield – Bachelor of Nursing
One year into his degree, Troy Gregg Schofield made the strategic decision to transfer his studies and complete his Bachelor of Nursing at SIT. The change instigated invaluable life experiences,...
Eyessa Gentle – Bachelor of Screen Arts
Born-and-bred Southlander Eyessa Gentle has taken advantage of the great training on her doorstep, to gain the skills and qualifications for New Zealand’s rapidly growing animation sector.
International business educator guest lectures at SIT
Southern Institute of Technology business students took the opportunity to glean from the extensive knowledge of Dr Jacob Wood of James Cook University (JCU), Singapore, on Asia's strategic...
SIT sustainable heating system officially launched
Three years of planning, consultation and work came to fruition on Friday, 5th July with the official launch of Southern Institute of Technology’s recently installed electric boiler system....
SIT Hosts Top Carpentry Apprentice Challenge
Southland’s top carpentry apprentice was decided recently at SIT when local carpentry apprentices pitted themselves against each other and the clock at the regional heat of the annual New...

For many students, their journey at SIT leads to meaningful career pathways and long-term opportunities in New Zealand and beyond. Our graduates share how their experience has helped shape their future.

Graduate Stories

Hear from SIT graduates who have successfully completed their studies and taken the next step in their careers. These stories highlight the outcomes, skills, and opportunities gained through studying at SIT.


Celine Villarin – Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Health Science
Philippines born-and-raised Celine Porsha Villarin, who came to New Zealand to pursue further studies at SIT, loves that living in Invercargill means no traffic jams. 
Photography student uses creative portraiture to empower women
Southern Institute of Technology photography student, Julianne Andrews, is halfway through holding her first ever photographic exhibition ‘empowher’. The exhibition is a dream come...
Yumiko Horigome - Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage
Yumiko Horigome fulfilled a dream she’d held since a teenager when she walked across the stage to receive her Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage from SIT last year, and she is now...
Lalina Dayal – Master of Applied Management
Lalina Dayal feels she really gained the maximum benefits from her time as a student through SIT2LRN Distance Learning. She graduated with a Master of Applied Management, and she was also the...
Alice Liang

Alice Liang hails from China and was already in the construction industry there, working as a Cost Supervisor prior to her move to New Zealand for further study.  

Heidi Qu
Heidi Qu made the decision to study at Southern Institute of Technology because she wanted to start something new. “I wanted to learn a skill that would lead to a career lasting a...

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Southern Institute of Technology • New Zealand