Hillcrest High School proudly celebrates former student Ivy Fu (Class of 2019), who has just completed her Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science at AUT, specialising in histology and haematology and is now making a real difference in the health sector.
Hands-On Learning Builds Confidence
While at AUT, Ivy flourished in small, practical classes that mirrored the supportive learning environment she first experienced at Hillcrest. Regular access to university-level laboratories helped her develop both technical skills and self-assurance before stepping into clinical placements.
“Those lab sessions were invaluable,” Ivy reflects. “They mirror the hands-on approach I loved at Hillcrest, where we were encouraged to ask questions, work as a team and learn by doing.”
Clinical Placements Shape Career Goals
Ivy’s placements at North Shore Hospital’s Surgical Pathology Unit (histology) and LabPlus at Auckland City Hospital (haematology) offered her a behind-the-scenes look at real laboratory workflows. These experiences cemented her passion for histology.
“Working in a hospital lab for the first time helped me understand different team dynamics and clinical processes. My time in histology confirmed that this is the field I want to pursue.”
Teaching and Leadership
Returning to campus as a teaching assistant for a first-year histology course proved transformational. Guiding peers through challenging material reinforced Ivy’s own knowledge, boosted her confidence and ignited her leadership potential.
“Helping others learn pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me where I could grow both academically and personally.”
Making an Impact in Histology
Since graduating in 2024, Ivy has joined North Shore hospital laboratory, where she prepares tissue samples for diagnosis. From grossing and embedding to staining and immunohistochemistry, her work highlights microscopic details that pathologists rely on for accurate patient care.
“We’re like the artists of the lab, ensuring key tissue structures are visible so that doctors can diagnose and treat correctly. Though we’re behind the scenes, our role is vital to every patient’s journey.”
Advice for Current ākonga
Ivy encourages students to follow their passions even if it means changing course:
“Choose what you love. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to pivot. Every experience shapes you into who you’re meant to become. Trust yourself, stay resilient and keep moving forward.”
Supportive Mentors Matter
Reflecting on the people who guided her, Ivy credits her teachers and lecturers for fostering curiosity and confidence qualities first nurtured in Hillcrest’s classrooms and labs.
Hillcrest High School congratulates Ivy Fu on her outstanding achievements and looks forward to seeing how she continues to contribute to New Zealand’s health community. Ka rawe, Ivy!
