5 Reasons Why I Chose to Study in New Zealand | Study With New Zealand
Many people asked me “Why New Zealand?” when I told them where I was studying abroad. I never knew how to give them a straightforward answer without leaving out any important details.
I can write for hours about this subject but following are the 5 main reasons why I chose to study in New Zealand:
1. New Zealand is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world
And according to my research, New Zealand has an extremely unique biodiversity, with a lack of killer, giant insects. (Which is always a good thing, unless you’re into that).
2. Rugby is to New Zealand as football is to America
Who plays such an intense sport? Especially with a lack of padding! Although I’ll be the first one to admit, rugby is extremely confusing at first. But the best way to learn is to step on the pitch, ruck for possession, get in the scrum, or run the ball into the try zone.
3. New Zealand is extremely progressive in terms of sustainability
As an environmental science major this is a HUGE deal-maker. I will definitely use the sustainable practices I learn abroad back home and share them with my fellow ECO (environmental campus outreach) club members. GO GREEN OR GO HOME!
4. College is the time to find your place on this planet
My friend who is currently studying abroad in Cyprus is in the process of coining the term “you have to lose yourself to find yourself.” There couldn’t be more truth behind that statement. During one of my many restless nights with my mind consumed by excitement for study abroad, I finally realized that I can use this opportunity to grow as a person. I love my school here in the U.S, but my daily routine becomes pretty monotonous after a while. It seemed like I blinked at the start of the semester and when I opened my eyes finals were around the corner. Needless to say, this terrified me. I don’t want my life to be so predictable that I am able to just go through the motions. I want to adventure into places many people haven’t thought to explore. I want to lose myself in a beautiful landscape and culture; therefore New Zealand is the perfect place for me.
5. My home institution, Albright College is a small liberal arts school
I can’t walk across campus without running into someone I know and I personally love it. I feel so at home at a college with a strong sense of community. I will be attending Lincoln University which in many ways is similar to Albright. It’s a small school of about 3,000 students with a rigorous academic agenda. They also have a well-respected science department (or faculty in New Zealand) similar to that of Albright’s.
This story was originally published on alexdq001 and is republished with permission.
About the contributors
Alex is from Albright College in the USA and is currently studying abroad at Lincoln University, New Zealand. She is an Environmental Science major with an intense passion for nature and knowledge. “I hope my experience and the natural beauty and culture of this country will inspire others to travel and create their own memories.”