A born and bred southerner, Cayla Pou is studying the Bachelor of Commerce at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT), with the plan to graduate this year.
Completing a double major in both Marketing and Management, Cayla previously worked as a Pharmacy Technician for five years before becoming a Mum. She then chose to return to study.
“It was the Certificate in Business course at SIT that sparked interest for me in business studies which lead me to the Bachelor of Commerce programme,” Cayla says.
“I chose SIT as I reside in Invercargill. I just love home and at this age and raising a child, I have little desire to study or live anywhere else. “
Prior to committing to study, Cayla hoped that the course would have smaller numbers, unlike larger universities, creating a culture where she wasn’t treated like a number.
“SIT most definitely lived up to this expectation. I had a chance to build strong relationships with the tutors and my peers.”
Cayla found the BCom to be quite a broad qualification, and doesn’t feel she will be locked in to a particular area/profession for the rest of her life.
“ I have gained skills, knowledge and experience that will be helpful in any organisation.
“My tutors are second to none,” says Cayla.
“I really wouldn’t be where I am today without their wealth of knowledge and above and beyond support.”
For those looking towards a new career, she says the BCom is well worth considering.
“The course covers a range of areas, e.g Marketing, HR, Law - you might find that one area of the several you learn - sparks a bit of interest.”
SIT taught Cayla to think critically and form educated opinions. It provided her with a learning environment that exposed her to new experiences and people from all different cultures.
“I have been fortunate to be apart of the Te Awa Rau Māori mentoring programme,” she says.
“I began as a mentee and am now a mentor.
“This programme teaches me about my culture, but also helps build strong relationships and support networks to ensure my culture, Māori, succeed
Upon graduation, Cayla was offered and accepted a position at Southern Transport who operate under The Richardson group in Invercargill.
Although she is unsure about what the future homes, Cayla has some wise words for others contemplating study.
“I like to think that hard work and determination opens doors, and opportunities will present themselves,” she says.
“Study takes a lot of motivation and perseverance, it’s not for everyone and that’s okay. But if you are in a place where you are unsure what to do, definitely study at SIT. It is never a bad thing to feed your mind!”