NZ is a dream, especially with TEAN! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

During my time at Otago, I took 4 classes (2 Tourism & 2 Māori classes). The cool part about taking both the Tourism and Māori classes is having the opportunity to learn about the topics have shaped New Zealand to the nation it is today. To put it simply, each of these classes only had a few, but major assignments and a final exam. It was ideal for being able to explore the country & it's culture as well as excel in classes.

On-site administration of your program

The TEAN staff are amazing, extremely helpful, and very kind. Throughout the semester, TEAN had a staff member on campus that helped us get acclimated to life at the University of Otago as well as New Zealand. Over the course of the semester, she organized small get togethers at local cafés, restaurants, and the University museum. It was a great way for all of us to catch up. More importantly, if you ever needed help with anything, the TEAN staff members were more than happy to help, especially our our on-site contact! Additionally, the International offices are very resourceful and welcoming as well.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I absolutely loved my living arrangements and it was one of the best parts of my time abroad. I lived in an university flat with 3 other roommates, one being the kiwi host (local NZ student) as well as two other Americans studying abroad. TEAN, UniFlats, and International Office of the university truly want the students to enjoy where they are living and go the extra mile to make sure they are satisfied. They really take the pairing of roommates/flatmates seriously and I loved the people I lived with. It was amazing living with people who were familiar with New Zealand as well as living people who had the same desire to explore.

The food was good and honestly pretty similar to the States! As a study abroad student, the most affordable approach to food in NZ is to get groceries and cook. With that being said, there are variety of good restaurants ranging from Indian, Thai, classic pub food, and so much more.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My kiwi host taught me a lot about New Zealand culture (especially Māori- the indigenous people of NZ) and recommended places my friends & I should explore/travel! He was extremely welcoming and answered any questions I had as well. He also introduced me to some of his mates which was so fun! Overall, between exploring and bonding with local students, I felt very integrated.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I personally never went through the process to access healthcare while over seas, but some of my peers did and I heard that it was easy to access and that everyone was very nice.

New Zealand is a very safe country. With that being said, no one place is perfect. Be sure to lock your doors and hide your valuables when you leave your flat/housing accommodations. Like I said before, NZ is very safe and I never felt uncomfortable/nervous walking around during the day or night.

With the help of TEAN, I had the semester of a life time. The people I met, the places I explored, and the experiences I had while immersing myself in New Zealand were some of the best times of my life and it wouldn't have been possible if it weren't for TEAN. They truly want to see their students have the time of their life and enjoy studying abroad. I'm forever in debt to TEAN for helping have the best semester I could of ever asked for. I'm eternally grateful I had the opportunity to study in NZ with TEAN.

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

Living in NZ, particularly Dunedin, as a student is pretty affordable. In terms of spending time & money in NZ as a study abroad student, the main things you invest in are gas/transportation, food, gear, and mainly things needed for weekend trips. Gas/petrol is more expensive in NZ than it is in the US. Additionally, groceries are a tad bit more expensive since so many items are imported. With that being said, the US to NZ dollar exchange is in favor of the US dollar. Overall, even though some things are a tad bit more expensive in NZ than the US, you make your money back on things by the experiences you have. Also, souvenirs are also key and aren't to pricey- depending on what you get of course.

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• I loved how TEAN had set up our group orientation in Queenstown and gave us the opportunity to get to know each other before arriving in Dunedin.
• Furthermore, I also enjoyed the activities and meet-ups TEAN provided throughout the semester! It was a great way for everyone to catch up and to learn about new spots to explore!

• I couldn't be more satisfied with my experience with TEAN. They truly prepared me for my semester at Otago and helped everyone get acclimated to the New Zealand way of life. They truly want their students to have the best time and to feel at home! I highly recommend TEAN!

The Avid Adventurer