Mr. Aqua Harris | Nauru | Bachelor of Commerce in Professional Accounting
Taking small steps towards achieving bigger goals is what alumnus Mr. Aqua Harris of Nauru did during his academic journey at The University of the South Pacific (USP). He credits USP’s Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) for providing the foundation for his achievements, giving him what he calls “a second chance for a good future.” Mr. Harris started with basic English, Math, and Accounting before progressing to further studies and graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce in Professional Accounting in 2021.
Reflecting on his time at USP, Mr. Harris says that he not only enjoyed the diverse Pacific cultures but also made many lifelong friends from across the region.
As a student, one of his driving motivators was to graduate and make his family and country proud. He says he was fortunate to pursue this goal in an environment that exposed him to new things and helped him gain skills that have held him in good stead in his professional and personal life.
When asked what he would have studied if not accounting, Mr. Harris says it would have been Law, because he sees its importance across a variety of fields and careers. However, he was passionate about accounting, finance, and economics. Pursuing these subjects was a natural fit, and he reflects that these qualifications are integral to the growth and development of his country, Nauru.
While at USP, Mr. Harris volunteered with groups such as the Pacific Solidarity Youth Movement and the USP Students’ Association, explaining that these were life-changing experiences where he gained confidence and exposure, especially when facing real-life challenges.
Mr. Harris’s role, both before and after graduation, was as a Finance Officer. He describes the position as being responsible for maintaining accurate financial records for his employers.
Based on his professional experience, Mr. Harris has lessons to share. One is the importance of paying attention to detail and ensuring the consistency and integrity of financial management and recording. His experience has taught him that small errors can have a significant impact.
A second lesson is that developing a strong, disciplined work ethic early in one’s career is essential to becoming a successful professional. Lastly, he believes the desire to broaden one’s skills and knowledge opens new opportunities for growth and that one is never too old to learn.
Taking these lessons forward, Mr. Harris has become a vocal advocate among his peers, encouraging them to pursue further education so they can contribute to nation-building.
“Too often,” he says, “we fail to see the big picture.” Since graduating, he uses every opportunity to share his experience at USP and talk about the many opportunities that education brings. As for his own further studies, Mr. Harris is keen to pursue a master’s degree.
Mr. Aqua Harris is proud to be part of USP’s alumni network and is grateful for the friends he made, the life lessons he learned, and the opportunity to pursue an area of study that he is passionate about. His parting words are: “Once you’re passionate about learning and you are sure of what you want in life, you’re unstoppable.
