THE visit to the United States of America was an eye-opener for the Queen Victoria School Year 12 students who spent three weeks in California.
Accompanied by parents, guardians and teachers, the students departed on December 7 and returned on December 30, 2024.
Year 12 student, Setoki Butukoro in describing their visit said the trip was a different experience for him.
“Travelling to the USA with my brothers was a blessing for us because we got to see the different side of our world in terms of opportunities and technology – it’s just different,” he said.
“It challenged me to do better and take my studies seriously so I can achieve my dreams.
“After the trip to USA and talking to professors in various colleges and universities, I am challenged to do better and achieve my dreams.”
Student, Ioane Qalo described America as a different ‘world’.
“America is just different, and it offers great opportunities for studies, and we saw this when we visited the different universities and colleges,” he said.
“We met with a Senator at the State Capitol of California, and he encouraged us to dream big for ourselves and our country. This visit has set a platform for us as students to rise above and achieve big, even in America.”
Team leader, Ulai Butukoro said the trip was a successful one, especially with the support of the parents, teachers, USA QVSOB Association, Ministry of Education, US Embassy and the Koroitamana family in USA.
“The students had the opportunity to explore several prestigious universities, receiving valuable advice on the steps to take should they wish to pursue their studies in the United States,” he said.
“We visited the America River College, St Mary’s College, Sonoma State University and San Francisco State University. We also visited UC Berkeley, which is one of the top five universities in the world.
“This was an eye-opener for the boys as they saw the robotics museum at UC Berkeley. At that stage, it was fulfilling to see their excitement.
“The students also visited the Apple and Google headquarters in Silicon Valley, which is known as home to some of the greatest innovations of the global tech industry.
“All in all, it was very successful. The experience has broadened the students’ horizons, inspiring them to think beyond their immediate environment and set their sights on greater possibilities.”
“We were blessed to also have the support of the CEO of Divine Fijian Health Care (DFHC) Group, Poasa Koroitamana and his company for hosting our final week at Santa Rosa.
“We also thank our families and friends in California and the entire Fijian community for their support and hospitality during the tour and stay.”
He also thanked the Wesley United Methodist Church Sacramento, ACSOG USA, RKSOB USA, Fiji Nurses Association USA, New Zion Methodist Church Sacramento, Montgomery Methodist Church Santa Rosa, Kenani Vou United Methodist Church Santa Rosa and a few others for their kind support during the visit.
