IN a world gripped with overnight success and social media comparisons, Resian Saul carries a different kind of wisdom. As she navigates the complexities of macroeconomics and labour relations, Saul carries the dirt of the farm under her fingernails and the strength of her ancestors in her stride.
“Don’t compare yourself with someone else, flowers bloom at their own season,” she shared.
For the second-year Bachelor of Commerce student at The University of the South Pacific (USP), these aren’t just poetic words, they are a survival guide. Majoring in Economics and Human Resources Management and based at the Emalus Campus, Saul is a long way from the island home of Santo, Vanuatu where she grew up.
Resina’s story began with a bold sacrifice. Her parents moved the family from the island of Santo to the capital, Port Vila, for one reason: opportunity.
“I grew up in a rural village and we lived closely with nature, did farming and gardening, and made a living from it.” Saul said.
“Life was hard, transportation, school fees, distance from services, and limited resources were some of the struggles in my childhood. The support I also received from my community, relatives, and family, was a driving factor in my educational pursuit. I never once regretted growing up in the village because it taught me to work hard for what I wanted.”
During her final year in high school, Saul was drawn by the reputation of the USP Emalus Campus and the success of her relatives who studied and graduated from the University.
Enrolling just a few months later, she fully immersed herself in the University experience, from mastering digital platforms to engaging with international lecturers.
“Being able to study close to home also helped ease the financial burden on my family,” she added. “I’ve grown so much since then. I’ve found my rhythm, built lifelong friendships, and gained the confidence to tackle even the most difficult courses. I am proud to walk these halls as a USP student.”
The journey has opened many opportunities for this young woman, who is currently a Student Library Assistant.
“It can be fun because I get to work in a calm environment and to help others, but It also challenging because it requires staying organised and handling busy times or repetitive tasks with mt own academic work load,” she highlighted.
“So, learning to balancing working hours and study is very crucial.”
The road hasn’t always been smooth for her, faced with personal challenges and academic hurdles, but she rose above it.
“When you find yourself down, don’t settle there. Kneel to find your balance, then stand up and keep moving,” she said.
“My mentors taught me that when life gets difficult, you usually have two paths: you can fix the situation, or you can let it get worse. The choice of which path to take is entirely yours.”
“My character wasn’t built in a classroom; it was built on a foundation of hard work, respect, independence, and love.”
Saul advises that education isn’t a race with a fixed finish line, it’s a lifelong pursuit.
“Seize every opportunity that comes your way and never be afraid to start small. I am deeply grateful for the doors USP has opened for me. My best advice is to cherish and protect your education; remember, learning has no expiration date. It is never too late to pick up exactly where you left off.”
Applications for Semester 1, 2026 studies are Now Open.
New students can discover their study pathway and explore our internationally accredited programmes by visiting www.usp.ac.fj/apply.
Former students returning within three years can continue their studies via www.usp.ac.fj/resume.