Study Abroad at Victoria University of Wellington

When my friend and I arrived at our University Hall accommodation on our first day in Wellington, we couldn't believe our luck; it was just SO perfect. Very unlike the grotty or average places that we had in the UK, we were living in a very nice and spacious house, with a great living and kitchen area. We shared a room, and it was perfect for us to be living with 10 international students and one 'kiwi mate' (a New Zealand guy who helped us organise socials and was generally there to help). The only thing bad about living with 11 people was the mess that accumulated - especially after pre drinks before a night out - but most of us shared the responsibility of cleaning up, and also what else do you expect with 11 people sharing one kitchen?! However, it was so good living with internationals, as they in exactly the same boat as you. As an international student from England, I found the culture pretty similar, so if you want to ease into living in another country then this should definitely be a strong consideration.
In terms of the University itself, I actually found the workload very manageable, and to be honest easier than at my home uni. The modules that I did were New Zealand specific, and that was really interesting because I have never studied anything from a NZ/Pacific Island perspective before. I found it a really eye-opening experience, as I hadn't realised how American/Eurocentric our curriculum in England was, from primary school up to University. One thing that I would stress is that they do take note of your attendance, and I have been told by friends that you may be penalised if you do not meet the required amount.

Outside of University, there is so much going on in Wellington. You're really close to open countryside for such a great city, which is ideal for me because city life is sometimes too much for me. I liked the waterfront too, where you could purchase fresh fruit and veg every Sunday morning. The country is really great, too, there's lots of culturally significant places to visit, and beautiful scenery, especially in the South. It was definitely worth the semester.

So far, I have really enjoyed my experience at Victoria! Wellington is a small, relaxed, and cool city. New Zealand is great for the outdoorsman, not so much the urbanite. The winter weather is not so great either, beware of strong winds and rain. Also learn to deal with extremely steep hills. Nonetheless, there are many things to do and see in the country and city. The people are super nice and the city has a great vibe. The university is very supportive and offers several opportunities to engage with Wellington and the local people.

I have absolutely loved studying in Wellington for the trimester. I have been able to explore parts of New Zealand outside of Wellington and have seen the most beautiful landscapes. Wellington is a wonderful little city with a lot to offer. Vic has been a great academic environment, challenging, but not too stressful! Overall, this term has brought a lot of happiness to my life and helped me grow as a person.

Walking barefoot under the rain and cold, eating fish&ships, supporting the best rugby team (go Canes!) of NZ, having a weeeeird but lovely accent, enjoying nature and tramping, being polite and welcoming, taking care and being proud of wild and amazing landscapes, and of course respecting or being part of the huge maori culture... That's what being a Kiwi means mate. There's so much to say about life in NZ, and in wellington in particular. The weather might not be nice that the place is still beatiful, how come?
Victoria Uni is a great place to study. The uper cool people to meet and the lot of different cultures mixing there make the place unbelievable...

Victoria is located in NZ's capital city, Wellington. The school has professors that are (in some cases) world renown in their feilds. There isn't really homework, just tests and essays for the most part. The city is compact and bustling, and there's so much to do! The beach, the food, the bars... it's amazing. Wellington also gives you perfect leeway to the South Island and the north island, plus there's an international airport. I got to do it all! I stayed in Unilodge Stafford House which was just like an apartment. I loved having the privacy that is non existent in dorms in the states. There, I met lovely locals and international students from all over the place. NZ is a much safer place than the states, and I felt comfortable using Nakedbus as a solo traveler. Wellington and Victoria really changed my life, and allowed me to see how confident and passionate I am.

My experience at Victoria University of Wellington was easily the best 5 months of my life. Not only is New Zealand as a whole amazing, Wellington more specifically had such an inviting and fun atmosphere. There were so many things to do throughout the day, and the night life was awesome! The housing at this university was wonderful, and so were the kiwi mates! Overall, I would 10/10 recommend Victoria University of Wellington to all students looking to study abroad!

This program was simple and easy to follow/navigate the adjustment abroad in finding classes, information, etc. It's definitely pretty expensive for international students, so budgeting becomes very important here. The classes are laid out pretty well, and if you miss something or don't understand they professors are helpful. They have many clubs and organizations to join which is nice and suggested.

I can't say enough how amazing my semester at Vic in Wellington has been, and I'm only halfway over. The city is fantastic and very student friendly. The people are kind, curious, and friendly. The food and drink culture is phenomenal. There are so many places to see and things to do. The classes at Vic (that I took) were interesting and fun. I love my house and flatmates. I have no complaints. I love it!