Toward the bottom of the globe sits New Zealand, about the size of the USA’s Colorado. This small country packs a powerful punch, boasting some of the most stunning landscapes and diverse terrains. Only a hop, skip, and a jump from Australia and a myriad of Pacific islands, the location is perfect for someone who plans to travel during breaks from university.
Wellington
The capital city of Wellington has a young population that exudes vibrant life and energy. You will find restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world (my favorites: New Zealand fish & chips, Turkish kebabs, Indian curry, and French crepes). There are plenty of things to keep you busy: theatres, museums, countless shops, parks, and other activities. There’s even a bungee ride in the middle of the city that catapults you 180 feet in the air at 100mph! If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, you may even catch one of the movies playing at the Embassy Theatre where The Return of the King had its world premiere.
Culture
New Zealand’s culture is heavily influenced by the native Maori people, who settled there long before the English arrived. The heart of the Maori people is best captured through their art, language, and legends that are deeply rooted in their heritage.
Let me pass on some valuable information to you: if you are going to studying abroad, you will need help! This kind of venture costs a lot of money. But don’t give up yet, because I have good news for you! The Institute for International Education offers the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship, which provides up to $5000 for you to study virtually anywhere in the world. If I had not received this scholarship, all my plans for traveling to New Zealand would have inevitably failed. I experienced God’s provision in a very real way through the Gilman Scholarship. You can too, but you have to apply first!
Application process
Complete the online application by writing two short essays and completing a few forms. Simple, aye?
Here’s the link: Gilman homepage
Welcome to My Follow-on Project!
Part of the application includes proposing a follow-on project that you will complete upon your return. The goal for your project should be to promote studying abroad and to raise awareness of the Gilman Scholarship. Trust me; this is a small thing to do in return for the priceless experience of studying abroad. I proposed making this webpage. What could you do?
I want to emphasize that you can go almost anywhere in the world. My website has so much information about New Zealand because that is where I studied, but if you go to, for example, Chile or Zambia, then you can come home and share your experiences from there.
University/Classes
Be aware that academic standards can differ depending on the university you attend abroad. I studied Visual Communication Design at Massey University at Wellington. The program was very intense compared to what I was used to, but the quality of learning was excellent. I heard, on the other hand, that the Fine Arts department was very laid back. So it all depends on where you are and what you are studying. Determine beforehand to do your best!
Experiences
Flying, traveling on trains, seeing snow for the first time, facing challenges, going deeper in my relationship with Jesus Christ my Savior, meeting some of the coolest people on the globe – my list of favorite experiences goes on and on.
I lived in an apartment (called a “flat”) for the first time in my life. That was an experience in itself, but I gained many helpful life skills. For example, I learned that I could cook real meals (good ones!) and that time management is critical for being responsible and successful.
Side Travel
There were many opportunities for weekend trips during the semester, plus I went to Australia during the two-week study break and to the South Island at the end of the semester. My flat mate even went to Fiji! I thoroughly recommend side travel.
I hope I’ve convinced you that studying abroad is one of the most rewarding things you can do during your college experience.
In summary, remember to:
1) Apply for the Gilman Scholarship
2) Study abroad
3) Tell all your friends to study abroad!
I appreciate you taking the time to check out this page. I hope that it has proven to be a helpful resource for you.
Southern hemisphere
