One Exchange Won't be Enough

Committing to a study abroad program is a major decision that you will never regret and always remember. There are few places in this world that are higher acclaimed than the natural beauty that New Zealand has to offer. Once finding a program in New Zealand with Unitec I knew I was in for a trip of a lifetime and I would make the most out all the country and school had to offer.

Unitec presides just outside of Auckland city providing students with an approachable location within arms-reach of Auckland’s best attractions. They do a great job of making sure students are well taken care of and have every possible resource they may need. The Mt. Albert Campus produces an open layout but boasts the massive Hub for food, drinks, studying, and hanging out between classes. Studies at Unitec are very manageable and the class plans allow you to work at your own pace to complete assignments. As a Business major in the U.S. I found the classes and Lecturers approachable and informative which was a major part of my experience.

Due to the comparatively lackadaisical lesson plans and great faculty throughout Unitec I was able to comfortably start and finish my assignments often ahead of schedule allowing me to explore the wonders of New Zealand. Once your studies are done there is no limit to what you can see and do in this country. With great rental and flight rates with proper planning and a little bit of improvisation you can get all over the country on a great budget. Auckland itself is a beautiful and easy to understand city with reliable public transportation and great sites within 45 minutes in each direction.

Culture shock is very low at Unitec and in New Zealand, you will find adjusting to the pace and people very easy and even relieving. The largest adjustment you should expect is housing. Housing in New Zealand is held to a very relaxed standard and don’t be surprised to find some less than luxurious apartments upon arrival. However, with the right flat mates and a positive outlook on any obstacle your space will soon be home.

One of the most underrated portions of New Zealand and this program are the incredible people you will come into contact with. Unitec will expose you to almost every global nationality just through your classes. The campus is wonderfully diverse and you’ll have the opportunity to meet, live, and work with people from all walks of the world. In addition, Lesley Precious (the international manager) will be around every corner with great tips and ready to help with whatever you may need. The highlight of my trip and every memory I will keep from this experience are from the amazing individuals I’ve gotten to travel and interact with on this exchange.

Overall, Unitec will provide you with an incredible platform to get a quality education while also experiencing New Zealand at your leisure. You will make new friends, experience a new culture and conquer new obstacles big and small. This program is what you make of it and, apart from submitting assignments, there are virtually no limits to what you can do here.