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Gap Year Pays Off For Emma Fraser

Tuesday 23 January 2018, 9:41AM

By Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology

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BAY OF PLENTY

After finishing high school, Emma Fraser knew she wanted to keep studying, she just wasn’t sure what.

Not wanting to go to a university and spend “a lot of money on something I might not commit to”, she picked up a Toi Ohomai prospectus, selected a 6-month course to bridge the gap, and in doing so, found a whole new passion and career path unfolding before her, goals included.

"I think the expense of Uni is an issue a lot of people my age are thinking about. A lot of my friends don’t want to commit to Uni just yet or pay for it."

“Toi Ohomai’s courses are generally 9am-3pm Monday to Thursday, so they are more relaxed and you are still getting qualified. Plus they allow you to stay in your hometown and save a lot of money. That’s what I really liked about it.”

Having successfully completed the Taupo-based New Zealand Certificate in Business Administration Level 3, Emma has continued on to the Level 4 administration qualification at the same campus, saying that the courses have not only raised her skill level, but her confidence as well.

“I thought I was pretty good with computers before, however I’ve learnt all this different and interesting stuff – stuff I didn’t even know existed. I am really enjoying it."

“Level 3 and 4 are only six months each and each gives you a good understanding of business admin. I’ve made quite a few good friends too. One of the girls, Amy, she’s at the same level as me and we bounce ideas off each other, it’s brilliant."

Already balancing study with life and a part-time job as a waitress, Emma’s new skills have landed her a second part-time job doing admin work for popular local charter boat venture, Chris Jolly Outdoors. She feels the increased workload is a small price to pay for the opportunity to expand her skills.

“I was 17 when I started this course and saw admin jobs as ‘adult jobs’, so I didn’t think I’d be able to do anything like this. Now I have this admin job which I feel I can move up in, maybe like into management which is my end goal, and that is cool.”

Saying that her Mum is happy seeing her decision to stay local and study bear fruit, Emma has one clear piece of advice for any school leaver currently stressing over the decision in front of them.

“Don’t rush the university decision."

“I think having a gap year between university with a little bit of study, has been really good for me. My ideas on my career path have changed completely from where I was at."

“Back then, I had no idea what I wanted to be - there were so many different options! Toi Ohomai has focused me on one point and given me a clear vision. I’m really happy.”