Rain did nothing to dampen the spirits of the latest round of students from the National University of Samoa (N.U.S) to receive their degrees at the university's official graduation ceremony on Wednesday. 

Social distancing and pandemic safety measures made Wednesday's ceremony the University's first non-virtual graduation in a while;  the joy of being there to collect their certificates was evident on students' faces. 

Hundreds of students graduated on Wednesday and were greeted by families and friends offering their congratulations.

The top Faculty of Science student, Faauiga Kalapani of Vaitele fou, told the Samoa Observer that he felt overwhelmed by his achievement. 

Mr. Kalapani said he praised the Lord for everything that he has done for him.

"Words cannot explain how I feel," he said. 

"Because this is the first time that there is a Graduation since the pandemic, I feel happy to have this opportunity."

When asked if he ever expected to claim the top spot in the Faculty of Science Mr. Kalapani said the thought had not crossed his mind. 

He said he had only expected to partake in the graduation and receive his certificate.

"This is a gift for my family especially my parents and Grandparents who have been supporting my education. This is my gift to them," he said.

Puipui Mafiti Vailava of Avao was the University's top marketing student, who graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce, chose three words to express her feelings: Humble, honored and excited.

"Because all of this, I did it all for my dad. He sacrificed a lot for me, despite the struggles," she said.

She told the Samoa Observer that she was one of the top students in her College and dreamed of repeating the feat at university to prove that she can do anything in life with God's support.

The university's top accounting student, Elizabeth Tinei of Elise fou, said it was always her dream to top accounting when she started studying for a Bachelors's Degree.

"I  am really honoured to have this trophy and I am really glad and thanks to my parents for all their support," she said.

Ms. Tinei said that the hard work throughout the three years of her study had paid off, and for the future. She now looks forward to joining the Chartered Accountants of Samoa.