Aleisha Coskerie: Balancing it all

After completing her Bachelor of Accountancy entirely by distance, walking into the graduation ceremony and then on to campus, Aleisha Coskerie felt like a milestone moment she’d been working towards for years. 

Originally from Taumako, Aleisha began her studies three and a half years ago. She chose Massey University after researching accountancy programmes and finding it consistently well-recommended. From there, she committed fully to distance study, without ever setting foot on campus until graduation day, when she arrived to collect her regalia. 

“I’ve loved it. I did the whole degree by distance. I hadn’t been to campus at all until graduation day,” she says.  

Aleisha studied full-time, while also working and raising two young children. “It was manageable. You’ve got deadlines, and as long as you work towards them, you’re pretty good.” 

For Aleisha, the key to making it all work came down to one thing: discipline. 

“You’ve just got to be disciplined. You need to plan, know when your deadlines are, and make sure you’ve done the work before then. Otherwise you’re in trouble.” 

Graduation day itself was something completely new. Surrounded by other graduates and their whānau, and with her own children there to celebrate, the experience felt especially meaningful. 

“I’ve never experienced anything like this before. It’s pretty amazing.” 

Support along the way also made a difference. After studying for six months, Aleisha began working at an accounting firm, which supported her through her studies and will continue to back her as she takes the next step. 

“They’ve been really good. They’ve helped me through my degree, and they’ll help me through the next part of my Chartered Accountancy (CA) as well.” 

Looking back, Aleisha shares her advice to current and future students: “Be organised. Be disciplined. And remember that it’s worth it in the end. Once you’re there, you’ve always got it behind you.” 

As for what comes next, Aleisha isn’t slowing down. She’ll begin her CA papers next year, continuing a journey she clearly enjoys. 

“Learning always!”