The Best Time Of My Life Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classroom experience, for me, was much different than what I receive at my home university. Lectures are filled with over 100+ kiwi and international students while tutorial classes are much smaller and more personal. I was not used to having lectures that size and it was a challenge for me to change into this new academic setting. My biggest concern academically was the grading system my host university implemented. The grade scale is much different than what we are used to in the US. After receiving my first grade I was extremely concerned with how I was performing. I was then made aware that the grade rage is much different (For example, an A- 80-85, A 85-90, A+ 90-100). TEAN did a excellent job working with me to get me prepared for these difference. My on-site staff provided insider knowledge and gave me tips to help me quickly and efficiently get accustomed to these changes.

On-site administration of your program

I absolutely adored my on-site staff. They were always there when I needed them and they were always super helpful. Throughout the semester they hosted "coffee-catch-ups" where we would all meet up and talk about what was going on at that time. It was a great way to keep connected and ask questions to a local. My TEAN staff members were all so caring and it was a pleasure working with them.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

While in New Zealand I stayed in a ten person flat with Americans, Kiwis, and Europeans. This was probably my favorite part about Victoria University of Wellington. I would recommend this style of housing to anyone interested in studying abroad, specifically at Victoria. My placement in University Hall (Te Kotahinga) was the perfect fit. Utilities were included so there were no extra housing costs. The houses are clean and were maintained.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My one goal for my entire trip was to become so immersed in New Zealand culture that a kiwi would not be able to spot me as an American. Although I will never have the accent, by the end of the trip I felt very comfortable with kiwi culture. TEAN put on many programs, including an ALL BLACKS GAME, that allowed us to dive right into local life.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Fortunately, I did not have any experience with the health care system. However, TEAN works with the host university to get quality health insurance in case anything does happen while abroad..

Wellington, as well as New Zealand as a whole, is incredibly safe. During my five months abroad, I never once felt unsafe. That being said, I was constantly alert and aware of my surroundings. Most of the nights out I made sure to stay on bright streets with plenty of people around, but there were times I had to walk home alone on a dark street. Just be smart and use your best judgement.

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

I was a student on a tight budget. I was nervous about the expenses and whether or not I could afford to live abroad. Yes, food in New Zealand is expensive but it isn't outrageous. Yes, many activities can be expensive but they are worth it. At times it was difficult for me but I learned to drop unnecessary trips and took advantage of all the free activities around Wellington so I could save up for a big trip.

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• Apartment

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• TEAN excursion
• Cultural Immursion

• Nothing

The Avid Adventurer