Success does not come overnight.
It requires years of hard work, dedication and commitment, and immense sacrifice.
This was the case for Maraia Tricia Underwood, who did not leave any stone unturned as she walked an obstacle-filled path towards her dreams of attaining academic and personal success.
She attributes her success to hard work, sacrifice, obedience, and discipline – values she clung to when pursuing her studies at the Fiji National (FNU).
The 28-year-old expressed gratitude for her mother who had to take on the role of both parents when her father tragically passed away when she was two years old.
Years later, her mother married Isikeli Seva, a professional football goalkeeper.
Education
Underwood is originally from Kadavu and she spent most of her life growing up in Ba, and is the second eldest sibling of five.
She attended St Teresa’s Primary School and then to Xavier College and AD Patel College before deciding on tertiary studies.
In 2014, Underwood made the decision to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries from the university’s College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF).
“My mum motivated me to pursue a career in fisheries. I was interested in aquaculture, ocean management, marine life conservation, and the development of Fiji’s ever-growing demand for food security and sustainability,” she said.
“After doing some research, I decided on the course at FNU as it provided the technical expertise and research skills in the areas of aquaculture, offshore and inshore fisheries, postharvest preservation, fisheries biology, conservation and management and fisheries administration.”
A year into studies, Underwood became pregnant with her first child. This was further motivation for the then-21-year-old to excel in her studies.
“My son, Zephanaiah Roko Sarava, changed my perspective and outlook on things. He was also the biggest source of inspiration for me as I sat through my lectures, tutorials, and practical assessments,” she shared.
“Growing up, I have always heard about FNU and its practical components, which I found interesting as it would make my transition from university into the workplace easy. When I studied at FNU, the industry attachments were instrumental in giving me the skills and knowledge I needed to retain and implement first-hand.
“There were various campus life activities happening around campus and we were always made aware of the support services the university had to offer students who needed assistance in our learning journey. This made it easier for us to cope with our academic obligations as well as enjoy the clubs and other activities that were organised for the students.”
Career
“I am currently a Fisheries Assistant with the Ministry of Fisheries, which entails administrative tasks such as making procurements, obtaining quotations and reviewing specifications of purchased goods,” Underwood explained.
“My role includes overseeing breeding cycles, daily farm operations for freshwater species, and attending relevant training sessions.
“My studies have enabled me to travel and work in Fiji’s various fisheries and aquaculture sectors. This is exciting for me as I love to travel and gain new experiences. I was based in Labasa for a few years and at the moment I am based at Naduruloulou Research Station.”
Motivation
Without a second thought, Underwood shared that the credit for her success was due to her faith.
She also acknowledged her family for their support as she juggled being a mother and a full-time student over the three years of her studies.
“My family is what I call my home. The Fiji National University also became my home and provided me with the best career paths and attachment components to ensure I was ready for employment,” she said.
“My advice to all students is that with God, anything is possible.
“Remain focused and keep striving towards your goals until you achieve them. Sometimes achieving your goals takes longer than anticipated, but it’s all worth it. So, continue to push on towards your goals.”
