Uni student believes in paying her way

WORKING: Studying at Otago University Chiara Gibbs, 18, pays her way to and from Dunedin by working at the Renall St Dairy serving customers during holidays.PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

Chiara Gibbs is working her way through university.

The 18-year-old former Solway College student started working at the Renall St Dairy about 18 months ago to help pay towards her getting to and from Otago University where she is a first-year student studying towards a Bachelor of Biomedical Science.

Chiara said if she didn't work she wouldn't be able to travel home or save money to help her during her studies in Dunedin.

"I wouldn't have been able to get myself there. Working pays for my flights so I can come home and get things I need."

Being employed in the holidays also keeps her occupied.

"I'd be bored at home otherwise. It's good to have my own money too."

It's a job she thoroughly enjoys doing too - especially making ice-creams for customers. I like the people I meet here and I love chatting to people. Making ice-creams is fun too," she said.

Her boss, Ajay Valand said Chiara was an asset to the business.

"She's pretty good. She's a good worker and very reliable. She turns up on time and I get a lot of good feedback from people all the time about her. They like her," he said.

He trusts her enough to leave her in charge of the shop at times too.

"It gives me time to spend with my family and doing things away from the shop."

She was a keen worker too, keeping in touch while away at university to ensure he knew when she was available to work, Mr Valand said. She'll be returning in the next holiday break and again at the end of the year for the summer break.

"She emails and texts me to let me know when she will be here. She wants to work all the time and as many days as she can. It's great and means she can make her own money."