Cecilia in New Zealand

Ask me where I've been: New Zealand

Major(s) Computer Science
Hobbies Netflix, hiking, reading, coding
Hometown Los Angeles, CA
Program/Study Site Arcadia: University of Canterbury, Christchurch
Cecilia in New Zealand | New Zealand

Why study abroad?

It is a unique opportunity to spend a significant amount of time immersed in a different culture. You can really make the experience your own. Definitely do it!

Why did you choose New Zealand?

I've never been out of the country before so I wanted someplace that spoke English as their main language. I also wanted someplace where I could take classes in my major. New Zealand is known for its beautiful landscapes so I was excited to get out and explore. Also hobbits!

What courses did you enroll in while abroad?

  • Computer Graphics
  • Algorithms
  • Psychology
  • Maori History

What was your living situation?

I lived in an apartment and had 5 flatmates. We shared a kitchen and bathroom. I was in a flat with pretty much all Kiwis.

What did you do for fun?

Went on a lot of hikes both with the program, the university tramping club, and with people from my group. Went to a rugby game and ate a lot of fish and chips. Also went to see a couple movies, both your typical US films and NZ films.

Highlights of the program:

Going to a rugby game, zorbing, luging, visiting a Maori village. Also visiting Queesntown was included as part of the program. Also a free surf lesson.

The most challenging aspects of your experience:

Being away from home for a long time. The semester also had a lot of breaks/free time so filling those gaps was sometimes a bit of a challenge but overall very fun.

Final comments or suggestions for future participants:

Get out and explore as much as you can. Get out of your comfort zone and try new things.

 

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