Paolo Aquino, a member of the Dilworth School Class of 2019, has embarked on a remarkable journey of academic pursuit and cultural advocacy since leaving school. After a gap year at the Royal School Dungannon, his plans were altered by the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Undeterred, Paolo has since immersed himself in his studies, currently in his 4th year of a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) with a specialisation in psychology at the University of Auckland.
Paolo's interest in psychology was sparked by his own experiences, driving him to explore the nuances of immigrant life in New Zealand. Throughout his undergraduate studies, he noticed a lack of representation of Filipino voices in the academic texts of his courses. This observation ignited a passion within him to champion immigrant voices and ensure they are heard and recognised in academia.
With a clear vision for the future, Paolo plans to become a researcher, focusing on documenting Filipino experiences in New Zealand. He intends to pursue a PhD in psychology after completing his honours degree, aiming to publish academic articles that shed light on the lived experiences of his community.
Paolo's journey is not without its challenges, particularly financial ones. However, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of knowledge and advocacy. He believes that with the right support, he can overcome these obstacles and make a meaningful contribution to the field of psychology and the representation of immigrant communities in New Zealand.
Paolo Aquino's story is a testament to the resilience and determination of Dilworth alumni, showcasing how our graduates are making a positive impact in their communities and beyond. We are proud to have Paolo as a member of the Dilworth community and look forward to seeing his continued success in the future.