1 October 2018

Top Five Reasons to Study With New Zealand Teachers | Study With New Zealand

Cristián Cornejo
Chilean student

Let me start with a confession: When I arrived in Wellington back in February to start my studies I was a little nervous. It had been a while since I last attended any sort of class, and I didn’t really know what to expect.

Don’t get me wrong, I knew what I was getting into. Going back to study a master's was a big decision for me, and I chose New Zealand after doing a lot of research. My nervousness had more to do with wondering how I would adapt to the student life and if I was going to able to make the most out of it after so many years out of college.

Spoiler alert for the rest of this post: I had no reason to be worried! New Zealand turned out to be the perfect place for me to go back to school, and I’m about to tell you why by going through my TOP 5 REASONS TO STUDY WITH NEW ZEALAND TEACHERS:

  • The teaching style: Kiwis are famous for their friendly and relaxed attitude and that shows in the classroom. Rather than sitting there listening to my lecturer in a formal environment, every class is an opportunity to exchange ideas. I’ve found teachers are genuinely interested in what I have to say, and everyone’s views are considered.
  • The quality: All of New Zealand’s universities are ranked among the top 3% in the world. Since I started studying here I’ve been able to witness why. Teachers are highly qualified and have been able to provide me with the best tools for succeeding in my studies and beyond. The research being produced here is among the best in the world, and sharing classrooms with some of the leaders in my field of study has been an incredible experience.
  • The challenge: Maintaining that level of excellence requires a strong commitment. I’ve been encouraged to think critically, be creative, and challenge myself. I personally find this very exciting, but if you’re thinking it might stress you out, read my next point.
  • The support: Ever since I first started studying here, I’ve felt my teachers have my back. Whether it is during class, at their office, by email or a through a simple hallway conversation, they have always been willing to answer my questions and help me in my studies. The university also has great support programs in place, with workshops on everything from academic writing to time management.
  • The rewards: As I’m approaching the end of the second trimester in my master's programme, I’m really excited about the possibilities that studying in New Zealand has opened for me, and I feel like I owe most of it to my teachers. Their friendly, open style of teaching has allowed me to find my own voice; their quality has provided me with the means to excel in my field; by challenging me, they have helped me realize what I’m capable of and with their support I have been able to meet those challenges and gain confidence and knowledge.

As you can see, teachers have been central to the success of my experience studying in New Zealand. So here’s a tip: when choosing a programme, try to learn as much as possible about your future teachers. A quick search on any university’s website will provide you with a lot of useful information like who’s likely to be your lecturer or what kind of research they are doing. This way you’re certain to find a good fit and you’ll be on your way to making the most out of your time studying in New Zealand!

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About the contributors
Cristián Cornejo
Chilean student