New Zealand-born Samoan Charm Tuala is on his way to prestigious Ivy league school, Brown University. Photo: Supplied
New Zealand-born Samoan Charm Tuala says it still feels surreal that he's on his way to prestigious Ivy League school, Brown University in the USA.
Born and raised in South Auckland, Tuala graduated from De La Salle College where he was head boy in 2022.
Brown University, in Providence, Rhode Island has an acceptance rate of about five percent. The application process is extensive requiring multiple essays.
Tuala opened the congratulations email surrounded by his family at home last month.
"It just felt like out of a movie; it didn't feel real. [It] still feels surreal," Tuala said.
"A lot of nerves throughout the week but I trusted in God, knowing that he has a plan for me and whatever the outcome is, I'll be fine with it."
Tuala said going to an Ivy League school "wasn't on the table" in high school and when he applied, he kept it under wraps.
"It wasn't really something that seemed attainable, going overseas, especially going to an Ivy League school.
"I didn't think I'd be where I am today."
Charm Tuala (left) is excited for Brown University's rugby programme. Photo: Supplied
Tuala looked into the idea of going while attending the University of Auckland last year.
"I thought, wow, that would be such a great thing going there, not only for me but also my community."
Tuala said the response from family and friends has been very positive.
"Not just my parents, but a lot of people who acted like my parents who stepped in," he said.
"There's a lot of people in my life who impacted me positively and just telling those people and just seeing the smiles on their faces.
"They're just really proud of me and I think that's something that I always work towards, just to make them proud and make them smile. I'm glad that I could achieve that."
Tuala is a keen sportsman and liked Brown's rugby program.
He puts managing sports with academics down to his parent's influence.
"They always told me to manage my time wisely and keep a balance."
But he said school is always the number one priority.
Tuala said at this stage he's interested in studying and a business career.
