ArcadiaNZ Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

All of my courses were great--not particularly difficult compared to my home university, but I was looking for a less rigorous academic experience while abroad. Arcadia's coordinators have been doing their jobs for a long time and do an amazing job of explaining specific obstacles you might come across.

On-site administration of your program

Absolutely the best. Jane, Kate, and Georgia were amazing as sources of information, resources, and friends. The group activities were well-planned and incredibly fun, and they are just the best people!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in Parnell Student Village and loved it. Although most study abroad students live in Carlaw, I randomly chose PSV. I liked being further away from campus and being right on the Domain as well as Parnell, and it was good to have a home that felt more separate from school. The flats themselves are beautiful, and living with a combination of Kiwis and Americans was the perfect arrangement. I lucked out with a corner room with lots of windows, a balcony, and views of the Domain and CBD. Just be aware of the risks of living with random flatmates--they might not always be the most clean or considerate.

I cooked for myself. Buying groceries in Auckland was similar enough to at home that I could find all the basic ingredients I wanted with a few exceptions. I honestly miss the food I made there every day--Vogel's bread, the free range eggs, Marmite, Jed's coffee, Pic peanut butter, Hob Nobs...Eating out in Auckland was also excellent, but obviously can get expensive. Coffee pretty much anywhere is incredible though!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I learned an incredible amount of NZ culture as well as American culture from the outside. I could have been more integrated, but I chose to spend a lot of time with other study abroad students since we had the most similar interests (i.e. travel within NZ). I wish I had done a better job of making Kiwi friends BUT I had an amazing group and I don't regret any decision I made--we got to see so much of the country.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I went to the Uni health centre once to get a physical for a summer job, and it was a hassle. You have to fill out enrollment paperwork, wait for it to be processed, call in for an appointment (difficult with just an American phone), wait for an opening, and then come in multiple times for the appointment, which ended up only being five minutes in my case. I also happened to see a very rude nurse + doctor. If you actually get sick, I'm sure they'd be more helpful, but also be aware that drugstore medications are different as well as what needs to be prescribed. Bring your own decongestants/cough drops/etc if you get colds often and are picky. Also melatonin is prescription only.

I never felt unsafe, besides a few incidents of street harassment--and in any case, it was much less frequent than at home. I walked home through the Domain every day, sometimes after dark or late at night, and was very comfortable, although some other people might not be. I went everywhere in Auckland in groups and by myself, and I traveled on my own frequently. Before the semester began and over weekends I went backpacking on my own, and after exams I traveled to Australia and the South Island. NZ is a relatively safe place and I would recommend at least trying to travel independently--it was an amazing experience.

I loved Arcadia. I think even if our admins and group events had been terrible, I would have no regrets simply because of the friends I made.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Fairly easy, but i budgeted A LOT. I often went out with friends without buying anything, which is a difficult place to be.

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

Select all that apply

• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• The coordinators
• Program trips
• My friends <3

• Really nothing!

The Avid Adventurer