Why did you decide to study abroad with GlobaLinks?
Brianna: I chose GlobaLinks because it offered the best program for me. I was a little scared about being in a different country when I literally knew no one there. GlobaLinks’ week long orientation period was perfect for me. I made bonds with other students which have continued to this day, and learned as much as I could about New Zealand and its people. It also offered me the opportunity to volunteer abroad, and have adventures such as floating on inner tubes inside Waitomo cave. In addition to all the support once I arrived in New Zealand, GlobaLinks also provided me with an informed and friendly travel agent who booked all my flights to and from New Zealand, including my stopover in Nadi, Fiji!
What made this study abroad experience unique and special?
Brianna: While this experience is entitled “study” abroad, what made this time in my life special were the weekends spent away from campus. My friends and I traveled all over New Zealand, including Queenstown, Franz Joseph glacier, Nelson, Milford Sound, and Akaroa to name a few. My time in Christchurch was also special because I was able to see the city and the Cathedral as demolition began. I was also lucky enough to go to Cairns, Australia with my family for my spring break and Nadi, Fiji for a week after my semester ended. The memories I have from these adventures will last me a life time. No one will ever have the same experience I did, and I will never be able to recreate it.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Brianna: Studying abroad has impacted my life greatly. I feel so much more independent, confident, and ready to take on the world. I am completely comfortable with traveling alone, being able to manage my finances, and make important decisions. It also has impacted me professionally because I would love to return to Christchurch someday, whether it is for work or for pleasure. I saw firsthand the damage from the massive earthquakes just a few years ago and the slow process of rebuilding the city. Hopefully ten years down the line I will have the opportunity to return and show someone else the beautiful places I saw while studying abroad and I can see how the city has changed.