Studying abroad in New Zealand with TEAN will be the best days of your life! Past Review

By (Fashion Design and Production, Lasell College) for

The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Wellington - Massey University

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained so much confidence while studying abroad. I now know that I can be independent and set out to achieve my goals. I learned so much about the NZ culture and the true wonders of the country and its people who are full of kindness. I know have many goals to travel the world and of course go back to visit NZ again.

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.

The teaching methods were challenging to get used to since they were different from my college back home, however I prefer them now. The learning process was far more independent. It was also more about the process of creating clothing, rather than just the end product. The course work load was similar to what I was used to, however I felt I learned even more than I usually do in an ordinary semester in the class room.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

My host country program at massey uni was very helpful. However, you needed to ask for help before you received it. Once I did find their office, they were extremely helpful and even ran some group trips to show us some of the beautiful country side

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved my housing situation. My flat was certainly not glamorous, but the location was great, I loved living my wellington and being a 5-10 minute walk from everything (classes, restaurants, shops, and bars) The flat came fully furnished and even had a bunch of kitchen stuff for us to use. There were 5 of us all living in single rooms with a common living room, bathroom and kitchen. I lived with 4 other great Americans, however this was just by chance. Most of my other TEAN friends lived with Kiwis. My only slight complain- we had to buy our own linens, and we had to buy our own electricity at first. However, TEAN provided us with power cards so we didn't end up having to spend our own money on it. We also had to pay for internet- however this is the case with most NZ housing.

* Food:

Massey does not have any sort of dining plan, so you'll be on your own to explore the fantastic cuisine of wellington. KK's Malaysian restaurant off of Cuba street is the most delicious and affordable food you will ever eat.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

TEAN provided our group with a free pre-departure trip to Fiji- It was incredible! I loved every minute in Fiji, it truly was paradise! The colors, warm calm ocean, and friendly locals were unforgettable. TEAN also provided a fantastic orientation in Auckland, NZ. This location seems to change with each group they send out, but it was a great welcome to NZ. We did some adventure sports (canyoning- repelling down waterfalls!) and we also learned a lot about Maori culture, past and present. It also gave me a chance to explore Auckland and eat great food.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

NZ is an incredibly safe place. I never once felt at risk. I had no problems bringing my medicine in. I didn't deal with any health care issues while abroad- so I can't really make any comments or comparisons.

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • I loved living on my own in a different country with confidence.
  • I love the TEAN focus on learning about culture while having so much fun
  • Working with the super helpful staff at TEAN to get there.
* What could be improved?
  • I was a little confused when my return flight home got change due to an ash cloud. Not TEAN's fault, but I did feel lost about the flight change when they could have enlightened me.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? GO! Any person looking to feed or develop an adventurous attitude must travel to the beautiful country of NZ! Wellington is perfect mix of culture, art, music, and fun. And so close to the natural wonders of NZ