Home to me is my place of comfort, peace and trust. It is where I find teamwork whether it is at work, family or even in church.
My name is Samasoni Moleli Alama. I’m a graduate of Whitley College and I come from Samoa.
I went back to Samoa after graduating with a doctorate in research studies, in 2018, and continued working as a lecturer in Biblical Studies (Old Testament) for my employer and major sponsor, Congregation Christian Church Samoa (CCCS).
I presented papers in Suva, Fiji and Samoa, before COVID hit last year. But I’ve not been able to attend other seminar opportunities overseas.
Looking back at my time at Whitley is a memory to treasure. As an overseas candidate, I found the faculty staff at Whitley College so friendly, helpful and approachable. It was a welcoming place for me and my academic journey.
At the time I went through some personal issues but I found some great friends, both staff and students, and they helped me throughout my journey.
My scholarship was originally tied down to a theological university in the Netherlands, in 2007. But I made a shift to Whitley College instead because it was more convenient for my young family at the time. Looking back, I consider making that shift as one of the best decisions of my life.
My favourite memory of Whitley is night classes. These late classes were so challenging but so crucial as well. Studying together with students from different backgrounds, especially those whom I had never met, was an interesting experience.
I believe that I owe a lot to many of the Whitley faculty. Special thanks to Prof Mark Brett, supervisor for my PhD and now one of my closest friends! And I cannot forget Rev Dr Simon Holt, Prof Keith Dyer, Rev Dr Frank Rees, and Rev Dr Munro. You have all contributed to my success.
I would like to remain teaching until I get a call from a CCCS parish, for me to be their faifeau (minister). With, of course, approval from the elders of the Church!