Past Review
By Ed C (Marketing., Providence College) for
Arcadia: Auckland - University of Auckland
I would study abroad in New Zealand again a million times over. My experiences are cemented in my mind as some of the greatest times of my life. My trip abroad has added so much to college experience. I now come home with so many stories to tell, a new outlook on life, I have more confidence, and greater independence. The country is breathtaking. A picture is worth a thousand words, but to actually be there is infinitely more powerful. No words can explain the beauty of this land. I have many lasting friendships with people who I never would have met, and together we share such a special experience. I urge anyone who even has the slightest inclination to study abroad to actually do so. I promise you will not regret it.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
I enjoyed having students in my class who voiced their opinions and didn't necessarily have an American mindset. Also the professors had their own kiwi-style of teaching which was unique to me. I wish however I had more of an opportunity to see how they graded and tested their students before blindly taking my midterm and final tests. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I cannot say enough good things about Arcadia and how well they treated me and my fellow companions. They were able to answer any question and provide immediate help whenever we needed it. The Arcadia administrators (Kate and Jane) were incredibly knowledgeable about New Zealand and could offer good advice for things that were relevant to student/college life. Choose Arcadia they couldn't have been better. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived in 14 Whitaker Flats. This was undoubtedly the best spot to live, because of location, the size of the rooms, the students living there who were foreigners (not just Americans) and people from NZ. <br /><br /> I lived in Whitaker 14 Flats which was a perfect distance from the University, city, and nearby parks. I always felt safe walking home. I was very impressed with the living accommodations. We received our own rooms while living with other students. The RA's put on great events that everyone attended and help bond our building. The kitchen had all the necessary utensils in it so I had no problem cooking my food. I was also provided with bed sheets and a comforter which was nice. Internet was included too! |
| * Food: |
I never had a problem eating. The "feesh (fish) and chips" were always very tasty, the Turkish kebabs in the city were good too. Burger Fuel was a pretty good burger joint. I had a hard time finding good pizza though, perhaps my only complaint. The ice cream bars were the best I ever tasted. Meat pies should be tried as well. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The social and cultural experiences of studying abroad were some of the most rewarding. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I felt safe during the entire duration of my trip. I was fortunate to never get injured or become sick. My friend who was not as lucky had hurt his hand, but he got immediate attention at the hospital and did not have to pay a penny for his treatment. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | I was constantly traveling and definitely spent most of my money on this worthwhile endeavor. We stayed in hostels to save money, or even camped out because the weather was so nice. Be careful spending too much money on alcohol or bars. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | A student considering New Zealand must not be afraid to take the off beaten path. A sense for adventure must be at one's core. I remember being in the clear blue ocean, with snow cap mountains to my right, and a jungle to my left. It was truly remarkable, something anyone can appreciate. Not to mention New Zealand is home to some of the coolest people in the world. |
