A time of renewal, exploration, and self fulfillment. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The courses that I had were all amazing. There were multiple field trips for my courses in which I was able to experience the real world and apply what I have learned. One of these field trips was two nights and three days where we were to come up with our own research proposals. It was amazing. In addition, this was where I was first exposed to GIS which is what I plan to focus on, along with the environment, for my future. What amazed me was that all of the computers had the most updated GIS software. This lead to a very efficient and productive learning process with little to no technical issues. When I returned back to my University in California, I was very disappointed that the computers were not all updated with the software even though we bought the license. All of the professors at Lincoln University are kind and humble. We call them by their first names and I even played cards against humanities with one of them. They are passionate in their fields and learning from them was an extraordinary experience. Lincoln University aims to connect the work that the students do with the real world. For example, my GIS class worked on a project for the local governement and for another class.

On-site administration of your program

Great!!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in a flat with three other students. The flat was like a mini cabin because the walls were all wood and we had a fireplace as well!! We were in close proximity to many other flats and it honestly felt like I was on vacation 24/7. We did not have a dryer, but we did have a lot of lines to dry our clothes outside. This helped me bond more with nature and live a more sustainable lifestyle.

I was vegan so I cooked a lot rather than eating out. When I did eat out, I would eat chips (fries). Their chips are amazing- crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. In addition, the spices in New Zealand are of high quality and low prices. My culinary skills definitely improved and I also became a fan of curries. The Indian restaurants here have delicious food and there was also an awesome vegan restaurant that I went to a few times.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt like I was at home. The people were wonderful and nice. The environment was rejuvenating and natural. It was an amazing experience bonding with the local native people (Maori), the Pakeha (New Zealanders of European Descent), and other international students.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Honestly, I never really got sick. I never went to the doctor or hospital for treatment or anything. I did have to take a lot of vaccinations prior to the program which I thought was unnecessary. New Zealand is definitely safer than the United States- safety-wise and disease-wise.

My host city was the safest place that I have ever been to. We leave our doors, bicycles, etc unlocked and nothing was ever stolen. I forgot my laptop outside once. It was there the next day.

I would choose the same program again for sure. The country is a great role model for sustainable living and environmental protection. They have good relations with their native people, unlike the United States. The Maori actually influence environmental and government decisions. Their art is celebrated and their culture is integrated throughout the Island. This program gave me courses that teach skills that are useful in the real-world. Their mission and intent on helping make the world a better place shows throughout the entire school and Island.

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

Personally, I ate a lot and I liked to cook for others too which was why my food expenses were kind of high. I often held flat dinners where at least 10-15 students would gather in my flat and we would all eat and talk together. These memories were priceless.

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• The courses and professors were amazing.
• I made friends from all over the world.
• All of the people were so welcoming. For example, I was given a bed sheet/blanket set upon arrival and they even gave me extra blankets! I was also picked up at the airport by someone with a sign that said my name!

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The Academic or Linguist