Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

New Zealand: laid back adventures Past Review

By (Math, Wellesley College) for

University of Otago, New Zealand: Study Abroad Programme

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
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?

* Safety:

I felt safe

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)

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?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Other
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The country and people
* What could be improved?
  • i loved it
* 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.