Rangikura Ford: Supported every step of the way

Rangikura Ford graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in Education and Social Anthropology. Originally from Tokoroa, he chose Massey University because it offered something essential to his circumstances: flexibility.

“At the time, and even now, I was working full time. Massey was the only university I came across that offered distance learning, so it made study possible for me,” he explains. 

Balancing work and study could have been overwhelming, but Rangikura says strong support made all the difference. His workplace actively backed his studies, offering him a dedicated study day each week and flexibility around his hours.

“It wasn’t stressful at all. I finished work at a reasonable time and then had time to study. My workplace really supported me.”

Behind the scenes, family support was just as important. On graduation day, Rangikura was surrounded by whānau who had travelled long distances, some even from Australia, along with support from his church community and work colleagues.

“My highlight is just being able to walk across the stage and be loved and supported by my family. A lot of people came, and some really surprised me, travelling four hours just to be here.”

Throughout his studies, Rangikura found particular enjoyment in papers that explored human belief systems and cultures.

“Some of my favourite papers were Anthropology of Ritual, Religion and Witchcraft, Medical Anthropology, and Systems of Healing. I really enjoyed studying them.”

Even studying from a distance, Rangikura built connections and memories along the way. One online group assignment still makes him laugh.

“I was put into a group for an online presentation, but I couldn’t make the live class,” he recalls. “When I watched the recording back, they thought I was a girl. They were saying, ‘Oh, she’s not available.’ I jumped into the group chat and said, ‘Excuse me!’ That’s become our running joke now.”

Looking back, Rangikura is quick to encourage others who may be considering distance study, especially those juggling work or family commitments.

“I highly recommend studying via distance. There’s really great support. The lecturers understand if you’re working and will work around you. You can even contact them outside of normal study hours.”
Next up for Rangikura is a Graduate Diploma in Teaching. He hopes to return to the Cook Islands, giving back to his community through education.