Read our chat with Pilgrim’s Coursework Student Rep, Sesi Taunga

eLearning Facilitator, Adrian Jackson, sat down for a chat with Coursework Student Rep, Limisesi “Sesi” Taunga. Sesi is a Bachelor of Theology student at Pilgrim and candidate for ordained ministry in the Uniting Church.

Sesi: Mālō e lelei and hi everyone, I’m Limisesi Taunga (Sesi), and I’m currently studying for my Bachelor of Theology at Pilgrim College.

Adrian: Lovely to meet you Sesi! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Sesi: I’m a quiet person but I am really willing to learn new things and to truly be myself while I’m doing that.

Adrian: What brought you to Pilgrim?

Sesi: What brought me to Pilgrim was my sense of calling to ministry. I’ve felt this call since I was young, and when I moved to Australia, I was worshipping at the Uniting Church while working in aged care. The minister there asked if I had considered ministry, which confirmed the call I had already felt. I started a Period of Discernment, and after completing it, I began my studies at Pilgrim College to continue my journey towards ordained ministry.

Adrian: What has your experience of Pilgrim been like?

Sesi: My studies have helped reshape my life. There’s a great, inclusive community at Pilgrim, and I’ve been able to learn and experience new things. The faculty is very supportive and has given me many opportunities. I appreciate the support, like accessing to an academic mentor. Pilgrim has given me the right environment to grow spiritually, academically, and personally as I continue my studies toward ordained ministry in the Uniting Church.

Adrian: What’s next for you?

Sesi: Next, I’m excited to keep learning how to serve in a diverse community as a woman in ministry. I want to grow in my studies and formation so I can minister with care and compassion, helping all people feel valued and supported.

Adrian: Thanks for chatting with us Sesi.

As coursework student representative on the College Academic Committee, Sesi invites students with thoughts or suggestions about how we can improve the student experience to reach out to her.