Why did you choose this program?
I chose the AUT Study Abroad Program because not only did it align with my university's Elementary Education Program, it was also in the amazing country of New Zealand! Other students who had chosen this program had nothing but positive things to say about it.
From the beginning of my search for a program that was right for me, interactions with AUT staff were both helpful and positive, affirming my decision to attend AUT.
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
AUT assisted me with finding housing, choosing papers, and navigating norms and expectations of AUT which were different from the expectations of my home university. My home university in the U.S. helped me organize the application process for both my student visa and applying to AUT.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
My advice to anyone considering going on this program would be to not over think it, just go! It is easy to get wrapped up in the amount of preparation in order to study abroad, especially in a country that is as far away as New Zealand. But the process is not as complex as it seems.
The time put in to prepare is more than worth the incredible experience you will gain from attending this program.
The culture both at AUT and in New Zealand in general makes it an ideal place to learn and explore, there is no where else I would have rather had my study abroad experience!
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
Living on campus with other international students allowed for an average day to include cooking our own meals with roommates between or after classes, of which I would have between one and three a day.
I would spend a few hours doing school work and then would often spend time with international students and locals going out in the city (plenty to do within walking/bus distance), planning our own excursions, or simply spending time together in our flats.
The Maori community on campus is outstanding, and the papers they offer are a must-take. Weekly I would attend their $2.00 lunches at the Wharekai campus for great food and even better company!
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?
My biggest fear going abroad was that I would have trouble balancing school work and exploration of the incredible things New Zealand has to offer, as well as the monetary expenses of my adventures. When I got there however, all the students around me were busy balancing the same things, planning excursions while also putting the necessary time into their work, and following a budget.
I found it important to keep in mind that I was only there for 6 months, therefore making the most of my time included not only planning trips to Fiji, Australia, and the South Island, but also exploring the city I lived in, and meeting other study abroad students and locals.
Some of my favorite memories came from the least expensive parts of my trip! Find what experiences are most important to you to have and start there, managing your money can be stressful at times but learning to prioritize was key. Everyone at AUT was more than happy to give advice in regards to school, and travel. I am very happy with all I was able to explore on my budget, as well as how I did in my papers.
What was one of your favorite experiences with the AUT Study Abroad Program?
One of my favorite experiences was attending the International Noho Marae weekend at AUT's Marae, Nga Wai O Horotiu. It is a must if you are joining the program. The staff who run the weekend and teach Maori papers at AUT will make you feel at home, cook you some of the best food you have ever had, AND teach you about their beautiful culture.
In the process you get to meet many other international students who are going through the same experiences as you. You learn the true meaning of the word 'Whanau', and develop a connection with those who attend that lasts long after your study abroad experience is over. Don't miss it!