Rate My Professor Suse Kearns

In a recent University of Otago news feature, Suse Kearns was highlighted for her commitment to learning te reo Māori. As a regular participant in the Hui Whakatau sessions over the past few months, she has built significant confidence in the language. Starting from a simple mihi 'ko Suse ahau, nō Ōtepoti ahau,' she has expanded it to half a dozen lines, rediscovering vocabulary she knew and learning what to add and why. Facilitator Kare Tipa and the team create a supportive environment characterized by generosity and acceptance, allowing participants like Suse to step out of their comfort zones while feeling included as works in progress. These sessions have also fostered valuable face-to-face connections with colleagues she previously interacted with only by email.