Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Teaching in New Zealand; a trip of a lifetime! Past Review

By (Language, Literacy & Cultural Studies, Western Washington University) for

EducatorsAbroad: Traveling - Student Teaching (10-18 Weeks)

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I can't wait to teach abroad again and return to New Zealand one day. If all my family did not live here I would live/teach in Whakatane, New Zealand in a heartbeat.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I thought this was a great experience and I learned so much from being placed in a different school system of a different country.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Educators Abroad did a fine job organizing a wonderful family for me to live with during my student teaching internship. There was an on-site coordinator who was there every step of the way to answer my questions. I also felt well supported through getting my visa, health insurance, etc.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was greeted very warmly an felt part of the family right away. I only needed to supply toiletries for my homestay and all linen, towels, laundry, cookware, etc. was provided. I lived in a very safe, friendly neighborhood that was near to my school I was interning at. I had my own spare room and felt comfortable with my own space.

* Food:

The fruit in New Zealand is delicious, and be sure to try all of the seafood!!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

While in New Zealand I was able to participate in an all school hungi and pohiri as we were having a Maori event of opening up a new schoool hall. I also visited an active volcano, called White Island.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I felt extremely safe the entire time and never had any health complications or accidents.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hostel
  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Great town, school, staff and community.
* What could be improved?
  • n/a
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? This program was remarkable and truly the best 3 months I've had during my college years. This city and country was a great location and I would recommend this experience to students that feel comfortable living on their own with limited communication with people back home. You should also love the sun and beach :)