Study Abroad at AUT University in New Zealand

During my time at Auckland University of Technology, I was exposed to both things I enjoyed and did not enjoy, though what else could be expected of a complete immersion into a new culture and environment. I myself am not someone who enjoys city life and came to Auckland simply because it was the only way I could spend time in New Zealand, so I certainly had days where leaving the city became my only goal. The country is indescribably beautiful and has unlimited hiking and exploring opportunities, which was perfect for me and has become the main reason that when I grow older I know I will move back to New Zealand for good, yet the city itself can be overwhelming and loud at most times. As for the university, I found the organization of classes to be very much different from my experience in the United States, but have scraped by well enough and got what I needed from them. The faculty in the Education department on the North Shore of AUT were all very impressive and I thought offered great insights about new ways of teaching and were certainly passionate about what they were educating us on- overall I would not have changed my study abroad experience for anything and have met beautiful people, seen incredible sights and peaks, and have laughed and thoroughly enjoyed my time here in Auckland. New Zealand is an incredible place to be! :)

I've been studying at AUT since July last year.

Last semester I took English classes at AUT International House and now I'm taking some Science papers. All the staff was extremely helpful and friendly. It's very easy to make new friends since a lot of people are from different countries! Now I have friends all over the world. :)

Coming in New Zealand for an exchange program was like a dream. I worked hard in my home school to catch this opportunity. I had one year for preparing my stay here in Auckland and so also one year for imagining how could this experience be.
However, it has been much better that all I could expect. New Zealand is the most beautiful country I have ever visited until now. I can remember all the moments I spent hiking and exploring a lot of places around the country.
My life in Auckland city was more about studying, meeting people from eveywhere in the world and hanging around with them.
My first few weeks here were a bit difficult because of my english level comparing to the other students, but now I can realize that I really feel more comfortable day after day. Also studying at AUT was more demanding that I expected because of an educational system different than the French one, but still, experiencing something different is always relevant.
I won't forget this exchange program in New Zealand and hope to come back soon.

As an international exchange student from the United States, coming to New Zealand to study has been an amazing experience itself. But, being able to learn right in the city of Auckland, New Zealand's most populated city, has given me insight and a better understanding of the world around me. I was initially struck by the diversity of Auckland. There are so many cultural centers which allowed me to explore certain aspects of kiwi life.

AUT University is a very unique place to explore Māori culture; a distinctive part of New Zealand culture. The first weekend of school, I attend the Noho Marae weekend and learned songs, stories and met people from all over the world. This experience was special in the sense that it united many different cultures and united us as a family or "whanau". Through this weekend, I realized a lot of what makes New Zealand special. There is a strong community aspect associated with its people and a strong sense that they care for you and welcome you.

The classes at AUT University focus more on you being self-motivated as a student. Many of the grades for the courses are weighed in large chunks. For example, one assessment can we weighed 40 percent of your grade and the other 60 percent. This means throughout the semester you have to stay on top of your studies, but at the same time have the freedom to plan your schedule as you please. In this way, I think many of the papers teach you responsibility, more than anything else. Professors are there to act as guides, but the students do a large chunk of the work.

With that said, the best thing about studying abroad in New Zealand is seeing some of the most incredible sights. Outside of the city there are so many breathtaking landscapes and extreme things to do. Every weekend you can potentially plan a trip somewhere. Whether it's a hike or bungee jumping, these things are accessible by fairly cheap transportation options. It's just a matter of staying on top your studies.

The social scene at AUT University is only there if you want it to be there. Staying in your room all day will not allow you to meet new people. But, attending all of the available social events will probably introduce you to people and potentially friends. There aren't too many social events throughout the year, but there are a number in the beginning. So it is better to be social early on.

Living at the Wellesley Student Apartments has had its highs and lows. Since you live in a student housing situation, there will be administration that will deter you from doing certain things. But, there are still fun things to do like grocery bingo, where you have a chance to win free groceries. Also, it is such a luxury having your own room here. Living communally with four other flatmates is not bad at all, considering you have a shared kitchen, living room and bathrooms.

The first thing I have to say is that my time studying at AUT is not long enough! Auckland is a fantastic and vibrant city that is also a great base for travelling the rest of New Zealand as well. The facilities available to students at AUT are excellent and we are supported by a great team of helpful and knowledgable staff. You will make some of your best memories here and meet even better friends during your stay!

Auckland is a really nice place to study abroad in. AUT teachers (at least Psychology teachers) are really qualified and helpful with international students as well as the AUT team that helps you adapt.
Highly recommended to come with the highest budget possible as it is a really expensive country and the services (printing, food, library, books) is not cheap at all in AUT.
Thank you all for this nice time!!

It has been a really awesome experience so far at AUT. Noho Marae was memorable, I felt at home out there. Every student should do it to learn more about the Maori culture. The AUT's staff is thriven and thro, especially the International Student Centre, which helped me so much with my visa.

As soon as you enter the school you feel good. Orientation days are made in the beginning of the semester plus some specific activities (lunch, afterworks...) are organised for exchange students in order to meet new people in a fun way.
Teachers are really charming, helpful and comprehensive.