Why did you choose this program?
I chose TEAN from inspiration from my peers and faculty at Berry College. It was highly recommended by my international studies advisor, as many students before me had taken part in this program for countries around the Asia-Pacific area of the world. I heard amazing things about the detailed and structured orientation weeks, and the resident director who would always be by our sides, and planned trips throughout the semester. With TEAN I never felt alone, and it was an enriching experience to enroll in this program during my semester abroad. I couldn't envision my time in New Zealand without TEAN or the students I made lifelong friends within the program.
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
My university assisted me with almost everything when connecting with TEAN and accomplishing all of the steps it takes to go abroad. TEAN was always in touch with my home university making sure each step was completed and ready to move on. I loved the nature of how TEAN was in contact and had connections with my home university through every step of the process. The instructions sent out were clear and easy to follow from getting documents, submitting transcripts, and taking every step through the university application.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
One piece of advice I would give to someone taking the leap and studying abroad in New Zealand through TEAN is do not be afraid! It may seem daunting being alone, gathering your independence, and traveling so far away from home. However, when I tell you this experience was the most rewarding and epic time of my life, I do mean it! I was only 20 years old going halfway across the globe by myself to immerse myself in a new culture and experience. Don't be afraid of what may be different because you will also change as a person for the better, taking those challenges, and creating memories through every aspect of your time abroad.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
As a student of the University of Otago under TEAN an average week would be filled with classes, studies, and friendships! Throughout the week I would attend all my papers in person, but I had so much free time throughout the rest of the day due to New Zealand's lack of assignments. Sometimes I would head over to the library to get a couple of hours of studying or writing of my papers done. Other times I would head into town with my friends and explore, and try some new cafes or restaurants. Every week I had time to do excursions though, and that was an amazing feeling. I got to explore so much of Dunedin, from the wildlife sanctuaries to the beaches, and the museums. New Zealand is a relaxed country, my time felt cherished for each week that I was there.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
My biggest fear of going abroad was the feeling of being alone. It's a big task to leave the comfort of your home university for a whole semester, leaving the friends you know, the professors, and your family. I usually do not feel anxious about being alone but this was a big jump for me even as an avid traveler. One way I overcame this was traveling with a friend from my home university, we are the same major, and have the same values, so going together was a big plus. However, even with her there I still was extremely anxious. This is where TEAN came in on orientation week and throughout the whole semester. I was with all other US students in the same situation as I was in and we all bonded throughout our orientation in Queenstown. It was great to know that there were students just like me! TEAN connected me to some of my lifelong friends and I am so grateful that I came on this study abroad with TEAN. Without it, I would have never met some of the most unique and fun people and had that connection to my program throughout the semester.
Write and answer your own question.
What was the most exciting part about being in New Zealand?
For me personally, I was so excited to come to New Zealand because of the immense beauty and nature that resides there. As a passionate environmental scientist and nature lover, just looking at the photos online got me so hyped about where I was going to be for 5 months. Throughout my time in New Zealand, I had some of the most amazing trips, and most through TEAN! At the beginning of the semester through TEAN we went up to Lake Tekapo and climbed up Mt. John, bathed in a hot spring pool, and watched the stars in an official Dark Sky Reserve. Then, on my semester break, I went up to Christchurch for almost a week to check out a new part of New Zealand. The best part was that a public bus drove us up there roundtrip for only $40 NZD!! TEAN also took us to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound during our orientation week. We also got to do a day trip down to the Caitlins, with serene beauty, my favorite spot at Nugget Point. Lastly, my friends and I did a road trip up to Wanaka and Lake Hawea to go camping, kakying, and hiking. I did all this travel during my classes too!!