New Zealand: Never A Dull Moment Past Review

By (Art and Design, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor) for

ISA Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I was more than happy with my experience and wish it may have lasted even a bit longer. It helped me appreciate other cultures more and learn about different ways and slang. I gained knowledge, more interests and friends. It also helped push me to learn how to adapt on my own for the future. I have always liked traveling, but now I have a greater want to go visit more places in the future.

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The class sizes were very small, which helped professors and students with focus and direction. Studio classes were broken up into different groups so that you shared your studios with just those groups and were all joined together for larger lectures. The workload was very reasonable and the professors always approachable and knowledgeable. The library had an extensive collection of literature on subjects studied and there was also the city's library in close proximity to the university. Interesting topics of studies that made you want to learn and research more; very compelled to better one's self.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The advisor that I had in New Zealand at the university in which I was studying was always there if I had questions or concerns. She got to know me very well and was always pleasant to talk to and discuss matters with. I never left with questions unanswered and she was always very helpful and made sure things were properly executed; she exceeded my expectations.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in the student apartments on campus, through which I bought some housing necessities. Everything was very close to here that I needed; I could walk to class, the grocery store, night life, etc. During vacations, I traveled around both islands and stayed in hostels and a camper van with others. I always had nice encounters with residents and other travelers while I was there.

* Food:

There were such a range of places to eat here, from fast food to nice sit down restaurants. While there, you are free to purchase what you need at the market. I personally do not have many restrictions with my own diet, but I am sure there would be no issue if that were the case.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There was so much to see and do here! I know that I did not get to do everything I had wanted to. There is something for everyone to enjoy! I went to several concerts, many site seeing adventures, sky diving, movie shooting locations, a wine and food festival and so on.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I did not experience any health issues while abroad. The location was exceedingly clean and I did not know many people to have any health issues aside from allergies or possibly a cold. I am sure that all would be taken care of though.

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)

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hostel
  • Dorm
  • Other
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
  • Local Students
  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Personally, I would recommend studying abroad to anyone regardless of where they end up going. I think it is a great experience that helps build you as a person and helps you find interests and independence. You may want to look into all programs to see which interests you the most, even in places you may not have considered. I did not really consider New Zealand at first, but after consideration and selection, I could not be more happy with my decision!