By Tupou Vaipulu Jr

A New Zealand high school graduate of Tongan descent, Jared Heitonga Lasike (18) has been accepted by two US Ivy League colleges. He received an acceptance offer from Princeton late last year and another from Harvard recently. The high-achiever from Rotorua must now choose one of these universities to pursue a degree later this year.

Jared's parents are Tupou Tu'ilautala and Bridgette Lasike. His father, Tu’ilautala is from the house of Lord Lasike of Lakepa, Tohi and Nīkua of Niuafo’ou. He also has Maori and European heritage.

Jared planned on studying Sociology at Princeton University however, after receiving another admission from Harvard on 28 March 2025, he has been left with a tough decision.

”I think the academic opportunities offered by both colleges are similar. So, the deciding factors for me are the culture offered while at the college, support on offer both inside and outside of the classroom, and the opportunities after graduation," he told Matangi Tonga.

Tupou Tu'ilautala Lasike, Jared's dad, told Matangi Tonga that they have had great discussions with Jared over the past few days but, the final decision is up to him.

"Jared will make the final decision. Both Bridgette and I will support him 100%. That being said, I think Jared is leaning towards Harvard."

RBHS

Jared was head boy of Rotorua Boy's High School (RBHS) and was named Dux last year.

He was one of five students who won the Crimson Education’s Te Ara a Kupe Beaton Scholarship last year, which helped him get into these two universities.

The scholarship with Crimson Education was worth $25,000 (NZD) which helped cover the costs of Crimsons' services during the application process. This included academic and essay tutors, applications consultants, and financial aid consultants.

Jared applied to Princeton on 3 November last year and he received his letter of acceptance on the 13 December 2024. He later received another another admission from Harvard on 29 March 2025.

He plans to continue his studies in the medical field, to one day be able to help Maori and Pasifika people in the health sector.