Student builds website to connect peers

Information Technology student Lei Sun has developed a website he hopes will help build community among students and inspire kindness.

Lei worked as a programmer in China for 15 years before enrolling with OPAIC to gain a formal tertiary qualification in his field. He’s been earning top marks and even helping out his classmates.

“I have much experience with IT, so I know it’s hard to understand some of the theory. I try my best to help my classmates, to make their lives easier,” says Lei.

As part of his programme, he’s recently developed a website called Campus Sharing Platform where students can donate or lend items or provide free services to other students.

Items might include kitchenware, books, or furniture. Services might include picking somebody up from the airport to save them an expensive Uber ride. Other uses could include arranging a carpool to campus.

Lei said the idea for the project came about because the cost of living is rising and many students don’t have a lot of money.

“Why not create a platform to let students donate or share,” he says.

He says it’s not just about saving money but also about building a warm and helpful community on campus.

“I want the website to be a place where students can feel connected and they can find, not only useful resources, but also kindness and friendship,” he says.

“I hope this project can inspire others to be kind too.”

The project is also eco-friendly and sustainable because sharing helps reduce waste and gives items a second life.

“It’s a small step, but I believe even small actions can make a big difference,” says Lei.

Lei hopes his website will go live and be available for use later this year.

“The fundamental functions are done but I’ll keep working on it to optimise it and make it perfect,” says Lei.

The platform will just be for AIC campus students, for safety reasons.

Lei will complete his Graduate Diploma next year and then plans to enrol in Future Skills’ new Master of AI Integrated IT Solutions, the first programme of its kind in New Zealand. After completing his master’s degree,

Lei hopes to build a career in New Zealand.

“The people in New Zealand are very friendly. We can say hello to strangers in the street. The air is very fresh, and the sky is very blue and beautiful. I really like New Zealand.”