“Find a passion to do something and don’t let society or stereotypes keep you from attempting to do it”.
Jerome Tupuola, Class of 2020, has just received his Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning from the University of Auckland. “Man, it feels so real,” he says with a huge smile. “Thinking about the past four years, all the last-minute assignments,… a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.”
For Jerome, a proud Dilworth Old Boy and now recent university graduate, the road to this achievement has been anything but easy “I wasn’t the most academic student,” he reflects, “but I made it my goal to pass every single paper at university. And I did.” With a mix of C’s, B’s, and even some A’s.
Jerome’s success is one not just of academic results, but of determination and personal growth.
Jerome’s journey began in East Auckland, where his intermediate school in Glen Innes selected him as a standout Year 8 student with the potential to thrive. They helped him and his family look into and apply at a number of high-achieving schools including Dilworth, Auckland Grammar, Sacred Heart and St Kent’s, but it was the unique combination of full financial support and wrap-around care that led his family to choose Dilworth, even though he also received an offer from Sacred Heart, where many of his friends were going.
The rural Mangatāwhiri campus, where he began in Year 9, laid the foundation for lifelong friendships and a deep connection to the Dilworth brotherhood. “The outdoor education and living in cabins with other boys bonded us straight away. That’s why I still feel so close to them.”
At Dilworth, his strengths weren’t always academic. “PE was my best subject,” he says, “but Ms Lee, my Design & Visual Communications (DVC) teacher, changed the game for me. She made me realise I didn’t have to fit the stereotype of the Pasifika kid who just plays sport. She saw something more—and that’s why I chose Urban Planning.”
Dilworth gave Jerome more than just an education; it gave him self-discipline, purpose, and character. “The daily prep sessions taught me study skills. But more than that, Dilworth taught me to be a good man. To care. To give back.”
His advice to other Dilworth students reflects that personal journey: “Don’t be afraid of being different, and doing something different than what people may think. Find a passion to do something and don’t let society or stereotypes keep you from attempting to do it. Don’t get stuck in a channel—there are many paths to happiness and success.” At Dilworth, Jerome says, he was encouraged to be himself and it made all the difference.
A big part of Jerome’s success at university came through the support of the Staples Education Foundation (SEF), which provided him with not only a scholarship, but also a full suite of wrap-around services including mentorship, career support, and a deep sense of community.
“Staples meant more than words can explain,” Jerome says. “The financial support lifted the burden of the fees of course, so I could focus on study. But it was the belief they had in me—that was the real motivator.”
Mentorship from Nathan Donald played a key role. “Nathan was my mentor, but has become also a friend. He guided me through tough decisions and helped me see my future more clearly.” Networking opportunities through SEF, organised by staff like Jane, connected Jerome with professionals who opened doors to internships and career insights. “It wasn’t just a scholarship,” he explains. “It was a village behind me. SEF gave me the tools, relationships, and confidence that are still shaping my life.”
To those at SEF who supported him, Jerome has one message: “Thank you Haydn, SEF Board, mentors, buddies—you believed in me before I believed in myself. You created a family, not just a programme. I’m who I am today because of that.”
And to future Staples scholars, his advice is simple: “Staples is family. Make the most of this opportunity. They’ll always have your back. This will change your life—for the better.”
While Jerome currently plays rugby league in his spare time and remains connected with his Dilworth brothers—including looking forward to his Dilworth Class of 2020 5-Year Reunion in June—his sights are set on the future. “My dream is to take my career overseas—especially to Samoa. Giving back to my community is what drives me. Even if I make just a small difference, I’ll be happy.”
Jerome’s story is one of promise fulfilled—and of a young man who, through the support of Dilworth School, the Staples Education Foundation, and his own strong spirit, is ready to give back to the world that lifted him.