How the Staples Education Foundation Scholarship Changed Paolo Aquino's University Experience.
Last week, it was wonderful to see Paolo Aquino - Class of 2019 and Staples Education Scholarship (SEF) recipient – return to Dilworth to celebrate his graduation from the University of Auckland, with a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Hons) with First Class Honours in Psychology.
Since leaving Dilworth in 2019, Paolo’s journey through university has shaped his interest in psychology and inspired him to pursue research that makes a difference. Reflecting on his graduation, he shares, "Graduating today feels like a huge achievement and a moment to appreciate how far I’ve come”.
After leaving Dilworth, Paolo took up a Gap Year Tutor role at the Royal School of Dungannon in Ireland, an experience that broadened his perspective just as the world faced the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Returning to New Zealand to begin university, Paolo commenced his studies, exploring different fields before discovering his passion for psychology and research Throughout this time, the support of the Staples Education Foundation (SEF) community was invaluable -, particularly his mentor, Nigel Staples. Paolo reflects, “Nigel’s support helped me navigate university with focus and confidence”.
Paolo says about his experience with the SEF Scholarship, “It gave me the financial freedom to focus fully on my studies and pursue the opportunities I was most passionate about." With that support, he engaged deeply with the SEF network, connecting with mentors and peers who enriched his learning and professional growth. Regular catch-ups with Nigel also helped him refine his thinking and approach challenges more clearly. “Those conversations challenged me to think more critically and clarified the direction I wanted to take in my work ."
As he reflects on the impact of his SEF scholarship, Paolo notes:
“It wasn’t just support; it was a community that believed in me. This scholarship gave me confidence, guidance, and a network that encouraged me to pursue my goals.”
A 1.5-generation immigrant from the Philippines, Paolo came to New Zealand in 2009 with his parents. When a coworker of his dad mentioned the possibility of attending Dilworth, Paolo seized the opportunity, downloaded the application himself and handed it to his parents. The day the acceptance letter arrived, he was ecstatic. “Coming back to Dilworth now, it’s rewarding for the people who supported me to see what I’ve achieved.”
Paolo has accomplished a great deal since then, and he continues to build on his academic and research pursuits, with a clear vision for the future.
Paolo arrived at Dilworth in Year 8 convinced he’d become a lawyer - public speaking and English came naturally. By Years 11 and 12, he began reflecting deeply on his goals and wellbeing, which led him to seek support from the school counsellor at the time, Sas (Sandra Griffin). “That decision was pivotal,” he reflects. “It gave me a space to reflect and clarified my purpose”. Those conversations helped him realise his passion: to serve others and contribute to the mental health field.
What inspired him most during his time at Dilworth?
“The boys, not just my cohort, but also seeing how determined everyone was, trying their best and succeeding. Even now, watching fellow Dilworth Old Boys and seeing what they’re doing pushes me to be the best I can be.”
That spirit, paired with SEF's consistent framework - regular check-ins, even if just a quick coffee - kept him grounded. His mentor, Nigel Staples, who came to congratulate him in person on his graduation day, said, “Paolo has amazing qualities; he is open, enthusiastic, and positive, even while managing many commitments! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reconnecting with my mentee and seeing how things are going.”
Paolo's interest in psychology was sparked by his own experiences, which inspired him to explore the nuances of immigrant life in New Zealand. His goal is to complete a PhD in Psychology and work alongside often overlooked communities. His vision is for a Tiriti-led and equitable Aotearoa, where health services are culturally safe, evidence-based, and community-centred - and he wants to help build it.
“Many before me have worked hard for that vision. I want to add my voice and effort to that mahi and kaupapa.”
Paolo is completing his Master’s in Psychology while teaching and lecturing third-year Psychology students at the University of Auckland.
| The Staples Education Foundation scholarship provides financial support alongside a wraparound framework to help students thrive at university and beyond. Staples students are given networking opportunities and are matched with a mentor and a dedicated buddy. There is also ongoing training through the Support and Development Programme. |