STAR-CRAZY students of Nadi Airport School got a lifetime opportunity when Hollywood celebrities visited their school yesterday.
Nia Long, Tatyana Ali and James Tyler Williams arrived about half an hour behind schedule but the delay failed to dampen the mood of the 536 students.
With police escort, security guards and a red carpet spread at the entrance of the school's walkway, every effort was made to honour the celebrities who arrived in Fiji at 4.30am yesterday on an Air Pacific flight.
Cheers and clapping filled the air as they walked down the aisle and stopped to greet the children with hugs and handshakes.
"I have never seen so many beautiful children at one place in my life. I had tears in my eyes just walking down the aisle," said Ms Long who is known for her role in the movies Big Momma's House and Are We There Yet.
Ms Ali, who acted in the television series Fresh Prince of Bel Air, said her first visit to Fiji felt like home. "I thought I would feel like a foreigner but seeing you all has made me feel like I've known you and I feel like I'm seeing my family," she told the students.
The cheers became deafening when the Everybody Hates Chris sitcom star, James Tyler Williams addressed students. "In all areas, your foundation is always school. You should also get to sleep early because when you're my age, you will lose a lot of sleep," said the 18-year-old.
There was more celebrity advice. "Being in a school teaches you to love one another and gain the knowledge you need to achieve your goals," said Ms Long.
"Study hard, do all your homework and listen your teachers and parents. Remember no one can take your education away from you so work hard and you can be what you want to be," said Ms Ali.
The celebrities left after inspecting classrooms and having morning tea at the school.