New Zealand: A Place for Everyone Past Review
By Tessa J (Anthropology, Pennsylvania State University - University Park) for
The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Wellington - Victoria University of Wellington
My study abroad in New Zealand was the most rewarding experience of my life. I would go back in a heartbeat, and I believe that everyone should make the long trek to New Zealand at least once in their life.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Vic had such a variety of classes; it was impossible not to find something you enjoyed. A typical amount of classes taken per trimester is 3 or 4, so it was easier to really focus on each assignment. The classes were graded most on participation and large assignments, so you didn't have very much busy work. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The TEAN representatives in New Zealand were absolutely fantastic! If I ever needed advice on where to go or what to do anywhere in New Zealand, I was answered promptly and with information that only locals can give you. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived in Stafford House, an apartment building run by the university. It was about a 15 minute walk from campus in the Central Business District of Wellington. All of the cooking and cleaning supplies were available to me, all I needed to bring was linens. |
| * Food: |
One of my favorite parts of Wellington was the weekend markets. You could buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood for much cheaper than the grocery store. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The TEAN orientation in Auckland was amazing. We were able to explore the largest city in New Zealand, and we went to Rotorua for a night, where we Zorbed and white water rafted. This orientation allowed us to bond as a group and really get acclimated to New Zealand before we set off to our host cities. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I had no health issues, but the people I know who did said that the university health services were helpful and it didn't cost any money to be treated. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Everyone can find a way to enjoy New Zealand. Sport lovers will be overwhelmed by the amount of pride Kiwis have for their teams, adrenaline junkies will go crazy for the bungy-jumping and sky-diving, nature lovers will ogle over the breath-taking views of Mt. Taranaki or Queenstown. New Zealand has a niche for every type of person, and everyone should take advantage of travelling to this incredible country. |
