Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

South Island of New Zealand: The Most Beautiful Place on Earth November 30, 2024

By (Geosciences and Environmental Studies, Wellesley College) - abroad from 07/15/2024 to 11/11/2024 with

IFSA: Auckland - University of Auckland

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
All of my closest friends from abroad are from Europe. I got to learn phrases in French, Dutch, German and Italian as well as learn about the cultural contexts of these places. I was also the designated person to help people improve their English and learned how to communicate and build friendships across cultural contexts. Because of this, the world feels full of more possibilities for travel and friendships, as well as a kinder place. In terms of general outlook on life and understanding the importance of travel while I am in my youth, I would consider this a worthwhile experience.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

I was hesitant about not studying abroad in Europe because it seems like that is the area where you are able to do the most travel. However, I went on two of the best trips of my life to places I would probably never get to go if I wasn't studying in Auckland: the South Island of New Zealand and Japan. I dealt with a multitude of personal and familial struggles while I was abroad and did not find my coursework stimulating compared to Wellesley; however, these trips alone made my study abroad experience worth it.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? I spent approximately 40-60 USD on groceries each week, 12-20 USD on takeout/restaurants each week, and 12-30 USD on other expenses/activities each week.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I had lots of money saved up for study abroad from past work experiences and I definitely spent more than I thought I was going to. I would say don't let anxiety from spending money stop you from doing experiences that are unique to the country you are studying in or from traveling during your experience. In the end, it's best to cut out small frequent things like takeout so you can do more unique experiences. Also, don't feel bad about spending the money you've worked hard to earn, I had so many unforgettable experiences that I would not be able to do in the U.S. and I do not regret spending money on any of them.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The friends I made
  • The travel I was able to do
  • Improved my confidence to navigate all types of situations by myself
* What could be improved?
  • student housing
  • academic rigor
  • grading procedures
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It is very difficult to travel around New Zealand (both the north and south islands) without a car. Classes will be much easier than Wellesley so your experience will revolve around personal growth and traveling rather than academics.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!