Studying in New Zealand was a life-changing experience that made me a better teacher! Past Review
By Jacob R (Biology, General., University of Wisconsin - LaCrosse) for
Study Abroad Programs in New Zealand
I learned how to teach a diverse group of high school students from a different country, which broadened my skill-set as a teacher.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
My workload was average for a student teacher. I had to plan lessons for four different classes at three different grade levels. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The program has a proven track record of success and the staff responded promptly and kindly. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
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| * Food: |
Wellington had many great eateries, especially around Cuba street. The fish and chips were also a local favorite. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I went to the rugby world cup with members of a rugby-crazed nation. It was a lot of fun. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I felt very safe most of the time. There are very few bad neighborhoods. |
| 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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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | My housing was $200 NZ a week and additional expenses were $50-$100 per week. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Most items in New Zealand are rather expensive since it is an island nation and many things are imported. |
Language
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | None |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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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? | This is expensive, and requires a lot of hard work, but the benefits are priceless. |
