New Zealand: A Place Where I am Going to Bring My Kids One Day. Past Review
By Javier M (Chemistry., Suffolk University) for
CISabroad (Center for International Studies): Wellington - Semester on the North Island, New Zealand
I gain much from this experience in a way that I really can't describe in words. My study abroad experience has change my future plans by seriously considering moving to New Zealand and being a doctor for a rugby team, and my plans before was going to be an anesthesiologist, but now I am in a crossroad.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The workload was good enough being that these classes were hard. There is much independence in lectures, and you need to seek help if you want it. You have many different lectures during one trimester rather than having one in a semester which is a new experience. The grading system is really weird because an 80 in New Zealand is an A but back in the States it is an B- which is something strange as well. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I expected more help with the application for the visa and to have some type of office near the city rather than email, but when I did email, they responded back quickly which is nice. The program size was unusual because it was me alone and I wish they could of recruited another person so that I could of shared this experience with another person from the States. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Everything was great for housing. They had everything we needed to cook, clean, and eat. They gave us everything needed for our bedrooms. |
| * Food: |
I say to dine will be Burger Fuel, Hotel Bristol, The Grand, and a lot of sushi places as well. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The Rugby World Cup was the best part of my time in New Zealand. I will never forget it. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
My health was fine here in New Zealand, and safety was beyond great. I never felt unsecured or anything. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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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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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Do not be shy. Always say hello to person that is next to you. If a person invites you an event. go for it!!! Always be safe and the great thing about New Zealand is that they have modes of transportation for after hours. They also have great discounts if you are a student. Always have an open mind about everything and don't eat frozen food; make your own food or go out to eat if you have the money!!! New Zealand has great things to offer you. Any students that are open minded and have manners will most benefit from this program because those two key things will make you have a great time in New Zealand. |
