New Zealand: laid back adventures Past Review
By Victoria L (Math, Wellesley College) for
University of Otago, New Zealand: Study Abroad Programme
Yes, I gained confidence and independence. I loved it.
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 main difference was the size, and the affect that had on the teacher to student ratio. At Wellesley I have a close relationship with every one of my teachers, this improves my motivation and learning experience. I did not put much emphasis on my grades for two reasons, firstly, I wanted to focus on traveling and having an awesome time in New Zealand, second, my grades were not for a grade, they were simply for Wellesley credit. The grading system was different but not completely foriegn. |
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I barely used my program's resources. They were great when I needed anything. |
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived with a Kiwi, an American and a girl from Portugal. |
* Food: |
We had flat dinners 4 nights a week and cooked for ourselves. |
* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I hitch hiked a ton so I spent a lot of time with Kiwis (they usually pick up hitchers.) I also took a Maori class and a history of NZ class. I also made a ton of friends from all over the world because NZ is such a popular place to travel. |
* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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* Safety: |
I felt safe |
If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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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) |
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Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | Not sure, 100ish |
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Electricity |
Language
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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Other Program Information
* 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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* Who did you take classes 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? | If you are laid back, low key, and into the outdoors, NZ is a great choice. |