Rural New Zealand

Coming from California, my ideas of sustainability and conservation were centered around the stereotypical "green" concepts such as banning plastic bags and driving electric vehicles. Studying at Lincoln University has broadened my perspective of conservation, allowing me to recognise the importance of native and introduced species, sustainable agriculture, and much more. However, being surrounded by rural kiwi's has been both a blessing and a curse. At times, it can feel like you're stuck out in the middle of no-where with a bunch of people in shorts and gum boots. Luckily, I've found my crowd in the people that stand out; those with colorfully dyed hair, those who speak out against controversial agricultural practices, and those who ride scooters around the campus. I couldn't have asked for a better experience in New Zealand, thanks to Lincoln University and especially those involved with the soil science department :)