Tausala Filimaua Tutonu was speechless as she looked back at her journey after being named the top student for Bachelor of Education (Primary Level). It was a challenging journey for her but she kept her faith.

The 23-year-old hails from Vaoala and Vaipu'a Savaii.

"I believe the journey was never easy, there were times when giving up was an option. From the beginning of my life here at NUS, I did not take Foundation Education, I took Foundation Commerce. But I heard God's call for me to take a leap of faith and find a course that would help me assist the children of Samoa. And here I am, taking on FOE (Faculty of Education) because I believe this is how I can help the young generations of Samoa," she said.

"Being a teacher requires you to be patient, gentle, and humble. Having that mindset that the children under your supervision are your kids, will help navigate your calling as a teacher. I may not have kids of my own yet but I can treat them as my nieces and nephews. There is a big challenge ahead but having that positive mindset and patience will get you to where you want to go. Watching other previous students get trophies on their graduation has challenged me to do so, and I did it. It is not for anyone's glory but God."

She acknowledged all her mentors, tutors, and everyone who helped her in her educational journey. She also acknowledged her spiritual parents' support throughout her educational journey.

"Thank you, Ioane and Manuia Petaia, my spiritual parents for their continuous prayers as I take on the journey. As for my teaching journey which I'm about to embark on soon, I hope to use my knowledge and skills to help the students of Samoa. I take pride in teaching because I will be teaching the future of Samoa," she said. 

"The challenge throughout my years of learning would probably be peer pressure. I almost lost my path because I saw other students chilling and enjoying their lives, and I thought that looked like fun. I almost lost track of my path but God was there and He never left my side. He brought me back to the right path and has guided me to this day."

Tausala looks forward to helping and teaching the children of Samoa with the hopes that she would help in improving the current problem faced by the education system in Samoa.