For any Samoan student, there is always another life after the books.

This is the life of Philip I’uomaga, 24, from the village of Sa’anapu. 

Mr. I’uomaga was on his way back home from his plantation when he met the Village Voice team last week.

Mr. I’uomaga says life is difficult and he works hard to cope with it.

“I just finished my second year in nursing this year and next year will be my last and final year.

“Life here in Samoa is not that easy anymore but I am trying my best to complete my studies so I can get a good job to support my family.

“I am pushing myself hard because I know nowadays, without a paper, you will never get to find a good job to support your family.”

Mr. I’uomaga enjoys his life apart from reading books.

“As you guys can see now that I just came back from my plantation, well this is what I do when I’m not studying.

“I have to go plant and look after my plantation because this is the source of food for my and family and I.

“The plantation has been a good provider for my family because we do not have that much. People work, but this is what we rely on for food most of the time.”

Mr. I’uomaga added since he was on school break, he would take his farming responsibilities seriously.

“School is done for this year now and now I am back here at home and I am willing to invest most of my time here.

“I am thinking of putting in a lot of work for now on my plantation so that by the time school starts, it will be easier for my family to have food from the plantation while I’m away for school.”