Our Stories

Annette's Story

Tēnā Koutou Katoa. I'm really pleased for this opportunity to provide a brief about why I have chosen to study for a PhD.

Initially, the thought of studying at the PhD level horrified me. Although I was strongly encouraged by my peers to continue with further study, I needed to recover from completing my Mastorate in Education. Well, so I thought at the time anyway. That was almost ten years ago.

Now, as a member of Mai ki Poneke since it was established in 2002, many people who already have their PhD were invited to our hui to share their stories with us and to impart their words of wisdom. This alone inspired me to think more seriously about studying at the PhD level.

To answer the question, why have I chosen to do a PhD? Simple, so that people will benefit from what I have to say. I suppose it's like leaving behind some kind of legacy and the impact of that legacy has a snowball effect. It allows more than one, or two people to take it on board and make it a reality for them.

- Annette