Transitioning from high school to university was not an easy task for Ledua Quminakelo because he had to adapt to a life he did not expect.

Mr Quminakelo said during the first year of his study he had to struggle on his own, had to manage time and prioritise school.

“Gradually I began to build the confidence I needed in order to pull through but each step was harder. People from outside, especially those who judge you, think university life is easy. It is not.”

In order to handle the nitty gritty of his Bachelor of Arts, he put the challenges of his parents as a motivation to complete his studies.

“My parents have worked really hard in their respective fields to get me to where I am today. I did not want their sweat to be wasted,” he said.

“There were times when I locked myself in my room and cried because assignments and exams were hard.

“Coming from a sibling of six, it is only right that I graduate and help my younger siblings financially.”

It was usually the graduation gowns worn by graduates during his three years of study that motivated him to study hard. But it was unbearable.

“I decided to take it slow and do only two units per semester.”

The Tailevu lad is one of the lucky ones to have secured a job well before receiving his degree.

He now plans to help his parents care for his siblings.

Feedback: josefa.babitu@fijisun.com.fj