Following a dream, and guided by love

With her graduation gown still fresh on her shoulders, Phatcharee (Michelle) Sonsutti is already looking ahead to the classroom, where she has always felt she belongs. 

“I love learning and teaching. I love young children, teaching is my dream job,” she says.
Originally from Thailand, Michelle came to New Zealand with a clear sense of purpose. 

Drawn by Massey University’s strong reputation, she explains, “Massey has been an outstanding university in New Zealand; many people recommend it.” That reputation, combined with her passion for early childhood education, led her to pursue a Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching.

Michelle credits much of her motivation to her late husband, who passed away several years ago. “He inspired me to love learning and have that inquisitive mind. He’s my professor, my encyclopedia… my success has a big part from him.” His influence continues to shape the way she approaches both life and learning.

“My grandparents, parents and sisters have also made a huge contribution to my success at Massey University,” she adds.

Michelle’s philosophy of teaching reflects both thoughtfulness and growth. For Michelle, education is not static, it evolves. “Teaching and learning are about critical thinking. It’s about reflecting on what we’ve done and asking how we can do it better.” 

She also emphasises the importance of wellbeing and belonging in the classroom, seeing teaching as a balance between knowledge and human connection.

Among her favourite memories at Massey were her teaching placements. “When I went out for teaching practice in different schools, that was the highlight,” she says. Those real-world experiences helped shape her confidence and confirmed her passion for working with young learners.

Now, Michelle is stepping into the next chapter of her journey. She has secured a teaching position at a preschool in New Plymouth, starting immediately after graduation!

“It’s something more delicate, working with younger children, that’s where I can help with human development,” she says.

While the move comes with uncertainty, she embraces it with optimism. “It’s a new adventure that is daunting, but it’s exciting. I will do my best, with dedication and devotion.”