It took a lot of hard work and continued perseverance, but it is all worth it, according to Veronica Eleni Barinisavu, a Bachelor of Law student at the Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS).

Being unable to pursue tertiary studies soon after leaving high school due to financial challenges, Baranisavu worked in a restaurant for a few years to become financially secure in the hope to follow her childhood dream of becoming a lawyer.

“I have been ridiculed, laughed at, also told that I would never amount to anything but be a waitress and wipe tables all my life.  I knew I had two choices, wallow in my misfortunes or make gold out of it. I chose the latter,” recalled Baranisavu.

Successfully overcoming odds against her, Baranisavu is pleased she is now just a few steps closer to achieving her dreams.

“My parents Peni Barinisavu and Amele Maiwalu-Barinisavu have been an influential part of my life. When I was little, as a family we would talk about me becoming a lawyer and over the years this dream became my dream. Additionally, seeing my parents work daily to provide for a better life for us has been a motivation for me to make this dream a reality and I am working hard towards it,” stated Baranisavu.

“I am very fortunate to have been accepted at the FNU’s law school. The law lecturers are very supportive and would go an extra mile to assist students.”

Baranisavu, who is also the President of FNU’s Law Students Association further added that the programme has given her a lot of confidence and improved her public-speaking skills.

“I have also learnt to understand the different aspects of the law. I can read, summarise and analyse various judgements.”

Still adjusting to the new normal method of learning from home, the persevered and dedicated student tries to stay on track with her studies every day.

“I have a corner set up in my house which I have dedicated specially for my studies and I try and find daily motivation to stay focused towards my studies along with spending time with family.”

She attributes her success to her parents, siblings and husband. The rest, she owes to FNU academic staff Ana Rokomokoti and Adarshni Vikash, who Baranisavu considers her mentor and role models.

“Do not put your life struggles on a scale and measure it to someone else’s. Yours is just as valid as the struggles of the next person so we must be kind to everyone because we do not know what they have been through or what they are going through.”

Enrolment for Semester 2, 2021 is currently underway and interested students can visit the FNU website on www.fnu.ac.fj to learn more.

Prospective students can also text on 857 or email on admission@fnu.ac.fj if they face difficulties completing the process online or need further information on enrolment.