Why did you choose this program?
I chose this program because I wanted to experience something new. Before I decided, I did a lot of research concerning the place, the time, and the program I wanted to do. In the end, it took me to AUT in New Zealand.
It was always one of my life goals to see this country and its beautiful landscape. So why not combine study and travel?
This was the main question I asked myself and in the end I booked my ticket and my journey started!
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
In general it was quite strange to keep in contact with someone from the other side of the world, because night here meant day there. However, AUT's program assistants always helped when I had any questions.
In the beginning I had to give information about myself, my university, what I study, in which year I was, and proof for my English language skills (IELTS or TOEFL were totally fine).
After that I was able to apply for a program and chose the papers I wanted. In the end, after acceptance and payments I was able to apply for a visa, and then book my flight to start the journey!
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
Be well prepared and try to manage everything concerning your visa requirements, because this is the most important part: no visa = no journey!
Ensure that you have sufficient funds to stay here and try to save a lot of money. Once you are here you want to enjoy traveling and make the best of every minute you have to spend here! But no worries: if you need money you can always apply for an extra visa, AUT will definitely help you!
The time of application is sometimes really annoying and it takes a long time to go through everything, but in the end you will have the time of your life! And most important: smile and enjoy it!
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
An average week always starts with a nice weekend: either going on a trip or exploring Auckland itself (trust me, it will take you quite a few weekends to explore most of it). Normally you just follow your time schedule and go from class to class.
It is more than just going to a class, for example, my Monday also includes a Maori class in the evening. We sit together, talk about Maori culture, and enjoy our group of students from different faculties. On Tuesdays there is always a market to go to with some clothes, books, or anything else you desire, and finishes with playing basketball at the food corner.
On Wednesdays there is a Maori dinner: Everyone is welcome to join the dinner, followed by the kapahaka afterwards for a little donation! And then (for most people their last day of the week), on Thursdays there is free food at lunchtime at the food court! Isn't this the perfect start to the weekend? And what do you do weekends? You travel!
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 was definitely having problems socializing. Now I know, it's impossible not to do! During the introduction days, all the student ambassadors did a great job gathering the students from different faculties and introducing everyone, as well as showing them the most important things to know while studying here!
This is the day where most people start to make their first new friends and comrades! So don't forget to go there!