Talatoka Vusoniua Mocelolokula
Mocelolokula perseveres in Law studies at FNU
Four years after switching her tertiary institution and study programme, Talatoka Vusoniua Mocelolokula has no regrets and looks forward to graduating from the Fiji National University (FNU) in the coming months. Mocelolokula, is from Cawaro village, Udu Point in Vanua Levu.
She is a final-year Bachelor of Laws (LLB) student completing her last unit at FNU’s Nasinu Campus. She had earlier completed her primary and secondary education at Tacirua Primary School, Suva Grammar School and Laucala Bay Secondary School.
After a break from studies, she pursued Year 13 again through the Nabua Matua programme before undertaking her tertiary learning at FNU.
Offered by the College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS), the four-year LLB programme is designed to equip successful graduates with the skills and competency to enter into private practice as a barrister or solicitor. Graduates may also work as corporate lawyers for large firms, legal officers in the public service, community lawyers or in various positions outside the legal profession.
For Mocelolokula, taking a chance and listening to her older brother’s encouragement was a decision she has benefitted from.
“In 2018, I had already enrolled at another tertiary institution in Geography studies when my older brother Ropate Robi suggested that I also enrol and study Law with him at FNU,” she shared.
“I always had an interest in this field of study so without a second thought, I joined my brother at FNU and we have motivated and assisted each other throughout our studies.”
“This has been an enriching student journey and despite the obstacles, I am proud to be nearing my academic goal with the help of my brother, family and loved ones.”
As a full-time working student, her primary role is being a mother to her two young children. “It was never easy and smooth sailing for me,” she said.
“However, over the years I have learnt the importance of time management and balancing my academic, work and family life.”
“I’ve made sacrifices over time to ensure I could complete what was required of me academically and for this, I am grateful to my parents and siblings for helping care for my children while I was completing assignments or studying for an exam. Sometimes, they also accompany me to lectures on campus.” “My biggest joy and blessing is having my kids motivate me and celebrating every little achievement with me. When I’ve had a stressful day at work or school they would always say the right things to cheer me up.”
Whilst reflecting on her highlights of studying at FNU, Mocelolokula said this would include the moot assessment that her team won in 2019 and being on the winning side of debate teams during her study.
She was quick to add that she also welcomed and adapted well to studying remotely during the pandemic restrictions.
The youngest of five siblings, Mocelolokula said her faith in God was her biggest motivating force, in addition to her parents and family.
“I encourage others not to limit yourself, keep giving your best and even if you fail, you must always get back up and keep trying,” she stated.
“Consistency is what takes you anywhere.” Students interested in undertaking the LLB or other programmes at FNU can visit our website at www.fnu.ac.fj for course details, minimum entry and application requirements.