Josephine Tarasiewicz (16), of Bayfield High School, was given a $300 scholarship from the Otago Peninsula Community Board last year to attend Hands-On at Otago, a week-long programme designed to give high school pupils a taste of university life.
The programme was hosted by the University of Otago in January.
"It was honestly one of the best weeks of my life," Josephine said.
It was packed with learning opportunities, countless chances to meet new people and develop new connections, she said.
During the week, she stayed in Studholme College, one of the university’s halls of residence, with other pupils from around New Zealand.
In the mornings she studied her chosen subject, theatre and dance.
She was in a small class of about 10 people which, at the end of the week, did a 3-4 minute performance for everyone in the programme.
"Which was amazing considering none of us had been able to perform last year because of Covid," she said.
Each afternoon, pupils did a "snack" project — a snippet of another course.
Josephine studied genetics, botany and business.
"It was very refreshing to be around people who are so passionate and that really deserved to be there, worked hard to get where they are."
"Everyone just made the most of the opportunity."
Pupils also took part in quiz nights and scavenger hunts, and explored Dunedin.
"We really got to experience what uni life was like."
The programme inspired her to continue her education after school, hopefully to study something in the performing arts.
She thanked the board for its help.
Board chairman Paul Pope said Josephine was a fantastic ambassador for the board and the Otago Peninsula.
"We’ve been delighted to support you in that and look forward to what you do next."
