Aksharee’s Transformative Journey from Student to Professional: How I Built a Brighter Future with a New Zealand Education

For Aksharee, studying in New Zealand was the perfect combination of her academic goal to expand her legal expertise and her personal goal to experience a new lifestyle. She studied Law at the University of Waikato, where she completed a Graduate Diploma and a Master’s degree in Law.

As an international student in New Zealand, Aksharee found not only a world-class education but also a welcoming local community, a vibrant lifestyle, and clear career opportunities.  

Now pursuing her legal career as an Intermediate Solicitor, Aksharee reflects on her time studying and living in New Zealand as a transformative and enriching experience that shaped both her personal and professional development. 

For many international students, New Zealand stands out as a destination where they’re not only encouraged to thrive academically but also personally. Aksharee chose the University of Waikato for its strong focus on law, practical learning opportunities, and diverse campus culture.  

Studying was more than just about textbooks and lectures for Aksharee. She found the academic environment to be collaborative, interactive, and focused on preparing her for real-world challenges - something she valued highly. ‘The teaching style emphasized practical, real-world applications of legal principles, which complemented the theoretical aspects,’ she says. 

This type of immersive learning environment not only equips students with critical skills needed in the modern workplace, but it also develops an international perspective that is just as valuable.  

With access to approachable and supportive professors and a classroom filled with students from around the globe, Aksharee found herself constantly challenged and inspired. ‘Group discussions, case studies, and hands-on assignments were integral, allowing students to engage deeply with the material,’ she says.  

Today, Aksharee works as an Intermediate Solicitor with the Department of Corrections in New Zealand, specialising in litigation. She says her academic experience prepared her for the complexities of legal practice and gave her the confidence she needed to thrive professionally. 

Beyond the classroom, she gained valuable networking opportunities and industry exposure that helped pave the way for her career. ‘This foundation enabled me to transition seamlessly into roles like Probation Officer and now Intermediate Solicitor... It also instilled in me the confidence and adaptability to excel in diverse legal environments,’ she says. 

One of the most compelling reasons to study and live in New Zealand is the exceptional lifestyle it offers. Whether it was hiking on scenic trails, enjoying beaches, or simply soaking in our relaxed pace of life, New Zealand provided a peaceful environment, huge range of outdoor adventures, and inclusive culture for Aksharee to embrace. ‘The lifestyle in New Zealand is balanced and community-oriented, with a strong focus on work-life harmony,’ she says.  

Outside of the classroom, Aksharee made the most of New Zealand’s endless opportunities for exploration and community involvement. These experiences not only brought joy but also shaped her sense of identity and purpose.  

New Zealand’s unique culture added another layer of enrichment to Aksharee’s experience. In fact, engaging with the local culture deepened her understanding and appreciation of the country she now calls home.  

She also valued the connections she built with people from various other backgrounds, which made her journey feel less like a solitary pursuit and more like a shared adventure. ‘I built lasting friendships with people from all over the world. Whether it was through campus events, group projects, or casual meetups, these relationships added a special sense of belonging.’  

Why study in New Zealand? New Zealand offers high-quality education, cultural richness, and career-focused learning in a supportive environment.  

Whether you’re looking for a Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s degree, or undergraduate study that prepares you for the real world, New Zealand provides the perfect setting to thrive as an international student.  

Ready to start your journey? Explore courses to set you up for success in New Zealand.