Love, Klaudia

Dear Studio, 

My name is Klaudia Illenberger, and I am a graduate of the University of Otago with a major in Human Nutrition. I am a Ukrainian Kiwi that loves to do yoga, read books, drink coffee and to learn about science! 

I first found out about the Studio in my first year of university in 2018. However, I officially joined the family in my last year as a Social Impact Lead, 2020. I was mainly involved in UniCrew, where as a team, we brainstormed ideas for events to uplift communities and students at Otago! I also got the privilege to lead a Volunteering event called Reading Oasis every week. 

The Studio has forever changed me as a person in the most beautiful way possible! With the Studio, I have learnt the strength and power of people coming together to create something GREATER than themselves for others. Although, I was part of the Studio during the 2020 lockdown, which was a tough year for everyone. Nonetheless, the Studio still managed to teach me so many beautiful things about life, mental health and volunteering. It was so valuable to share ideas, to be heard in this community, and be valued. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming at university. However, the Studio made me feel seen. I am currently studying to become a Dietitian and want to give back to my community; I owe a part of that to the Studio. 

Some skills that I will carry with me forever are collaboration, connection, authenticity and living with purpose. The Studio also gifted me with friends for life which I could not even begin to thank.

As for lasting memories, it is the team who made the Social Impact Studio special. I would love to express my endless love and gratitude to Sze-En, Amal and Maddie. 

I am currently a student at the University of Auckland and have sadly not found something so authentically beautiful and inspiring that is readily available to students. 

With much love,

Klaudia