Why did you choose this program?
AUT University was an easy first choice for me. For a long time I had wanted to study in Australia or New Zealand, but after some research there was no doubt AUT was the place for me.
Not only did they provide the program I was looking for in Sport and Recreation, but the University stood out to me when it came to their International Student program. Long before I sat on the plane headed to Auckland, I was confident that I'd be given the resources needed for a good social life as well as a solid platform to succeed academically.
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
Firstly, from the moment I applied for AUT, I had contact with the International Student office in Auckland. They provided me with all the information needed in terms of accommodation, enrollment information and social events to come.
I made the arrangement for housing myself, but they gave me good advice on which campus I should be settling in during my first semester. Whenever I had questions about the different papers, they were there to help and very approachable.
During my three years at AUT, they staff helped me with anything from choosing a bank to knowing where to go if I needed assistance with proof reading a paper.
The University's International Student program also put on various social events to both learn about the Kiwi culture and get to know other students. The Noho Marae was one of these events. This happened once every semester and you got to mingle with the beautiful and generous Maoris as well as other international students. I've never before learnt so much about a culture and eaten so much delicious food as I did during this weekend!
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
If you're unsure about something (anything!) - ask! Kiwis are the most friendly, helpful and outgoing people I've ever met.
Get involved! Take part in social events and try new things. If you're a sports person - join a team! This is the best way to get to know people and feel part of something.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
This changed over the course of the three years. In the beginning there was a lot of socializing and getting to know the city, the university and other people. You'd still go to all your classes of course, but there was usually an after school activity of some sort.
In my second year I moved into my own apartment in Auckland with some friends. This was a great move for me and made me feel more like an Aucklander. I'd go to all my classes and usually stay at the University for a few hours after or before class to study.
During the afternoon I'd socialize - either play sports or go out for food/drinks. We often organized trips during the weekends. Auckland has a lot to offer - there are beaches and bushes just a one hour drive away!
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it and/or how did your views on the issue change?
Although I didn't have any great fears, there's always the uncertainty of the unknown. When moving to a different country, you sometimes wonder how much you're going to miss home. For me this fear went away very quickly.
You learn to live in the now - and to be honest - although it might feel like you're missing out on things at home, you're not. Enjoy every moment and every experience because before you know it you're back home where nothing's really changed