Rate My Professor Eric Nabalagi

Eric Nabalagi is the Tautiaki-Piki | Vukevuke ni liuliu | Deputy Warden at Caroline Freeman College and the Pacific Students Transition Officer in the Pacific Islands Centre, part of the Academic and Student Services Division at the University of Otago. Originally from the highlands of Viti Levu, Fiji, he moved to Dunedin, New Zealand, over 20 years ago at the age of 20. Eric graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelor of Commerce and Accounting degree. His educational background has informed his dedication to supporting Pacific students in higher education.

In his professional career, Eric has extensive experience in youth and community leadership within Pacific communities. Prior roles include serving as a community youth leader and Pacific Youth Coordinator at Pacific Trust Otago in Dunedin. As Pacific Students Transition Officer, he facilitates the smooth integration of first-year Pacific students through targeted programmes such as the Growing Pacific Scholars Orientation. In his capacity as Deputy Warden, Eric supports the College Warden in managing the residential community, overseeing the academic programme, and organising events, all while bringing the warmth, generosity, and spirit of his Fijian heritage to foster authentic connections. Eric actively participates in cultural preservation and exchange initiatives, recognised as a resident kava expert, contributor to Samoan ava ceremonies in the Council Chambers, and leader of Botanical Gardens clean-up activities with college residents and sub-wardens. He spearheaded a collaborative masi artwork project involving hundreds of hands at Caroline Freeman College, which achieved third place and was described by him as a beautiful exchange of culture. Furthermore, Eric was present at the signing of a historic Letter of Agreement between the University of Otago and Fijian partners to support scholars, and he assisted in loading donated dental chairs for Samoa's dental services expansion. His involvement in staff farewells, graduations, and Pacific staff networks underscores his ongoing commitment to enhancing the student experience and Pacific engagement at the university.