Moving to New Zealand to pursue my Master's degree in Marine Conservation was one of my best decisions. This program is multidimensional and challenges you to think about conservation from the many different viewpoints of all stakeholders involved when it comes to the environment, from scientists to policymakers and local communities. Beyond providing networking opportunities through guest lectures, this program offered amazing field courses that allowed me to gain international experience as well as practical skills. Although in my opinion the best part of the program was the people. New Zealand is unique in its education and its scientific community in that everyone strives to build a collaborative environment. Coming from the US, where university felt like a competition, having all of my peers and professors wanting to and helping me succeed was refreshing. My research experience, knowledge, and connections gained through this program have allowed me to continue my education as I currently pursue my PhD in Marine Biology

I am pleased that I chose Victoria University of Wellington to complete my Master's degree. The program provides many field courses that allow international students like myself to travel to places around New Zealand as well as other countries. I've met many students from all over the world during my studies and made long-lasting friendships. The field course to Indonesia was eye-opening. It provided an opportunity to immerse ourselves in a completely different culture and to learn about the marine ecosystems and conservation of those ecosystems.

I completed a Master of Arts degree in Media Studies at Victoria University of Wellington and it was a fantastic experience which has irrevocably changed the direction of my life and forced me to reassess my values.

The University is large, but the relatively small size of the campus and the city of Wellington makes it feel like you aren't totally lost in the crowd. I experienced some health challenges while studying and everybody was incredibly helpful during that experience. I was able to make changes to my visa, file multiple complicated insurance claims, and work with my professors to adjust deadlines and academic expectations. This was a stressful time made easier by these people.

My academic program required a lot of research and the library and my professors were real assets in helping me get through it. If you do come to VUW for graduate work I'd recommend contacting your professors ahead of time to state your interests and passions, people are really relaxed and welcome proactive outreach students.

As far as lifestyle, Wellington and New Zealand are second to none. I became hooked on the super strong coffee, endless variety of outdoor activities, and the laid back attitude of Wellington. One thing which was not so great was housing. New Zealand houses are often not insulated, which sounds barbaric to people from colder climates like myself. It can be hard to find a house that is suitable, so once you decide to go to New Zealand look early and use social media to find good places. Cost of living is often complained about, but I found if you are a bit flexible with what you eat/purchase you can get by pretty easily (I'm also from a more expensive area of the U.S. so take my comments with a grain of salt).

I have absolutely no regrets about coming to Victoria, and I'm happy to answer any questions about it. I'm still in constant contact with friends I made there and New Zealand will never leave me, which is really awesome.

I did my Master's in computer science abroad at Victoria University of Wellington. The classes and professors were the best of several universities I have attended. I met amazing friends, wonderful industry contacts, and Victoria helped me land my dream job! New Zealand is a beautiful country to explore and live in. After graduation I became a resident of NZ, and never looked back! Definitely check this place out for your study abroad plans.