How I Studied Abroad in New Zealand at Age 19

A year ago, I was just beginning my college experience in the United States, settling into a new school, making friends, and getting comfortable with my new normal. Then I was on a plane traveling halfway across the world to New Zealand.  

During freshman year I took a course I loved that brought me to Idaho, and I really wanted to pursue more travel opportunities. Studying abroad as a sophomore wasn’t exactly planned, but I was fortunate to receive a Gilman Match Scholarship from IFSA. In addition to my Gilman Scholarship, this allowed me to study in New Zealand this year. Coming from a family with limited financial resources, much of this journey was made possible through these scholarships. They meant so much to me because they allowed me to travel, explore, and fully experience my time in New Zealand.  

Studying abroad at 19 can feel like a huge leap. You leave behind the people and routines you have only recently become comfortable with and enter an entirely unfamiliar environment. But sometimes, the experiences that scare you the most are the ones that change you the most. 

Why University of Otago?  

If you are looking for a study-abroad destination where you can meet incredible people, experience life in a university city, and have access to both the ocean and the mountains, Dunedin is an amazing place to call home. Additionally, Otago offered biology courses that were more hands-on than my courses at home. I went out on a boat for my Marine Biology class and to Orokonui Ecosanctuary and the opera for my Animal Biology class.  

Finding friends in a new place  

One of my biggest concerns before coming to New Zealand was whether I would be able to make friends. I expected to meet people, but I never imagined that I would form such meaningful friendships so quickly.  

One of the first friends I made was through my IFSA program. She introduced me to her flatmates, who eventually became some of my closest friends here. Interestingly, my relationship with my own flatmates did not start that way. There was definitely an awkward adjustment period. My advice? Don’t give up on those relationships just because they feel awkward at first. Give yourselves time to settle in. I did, and now I am traveling to Mount Cook with two of my flatmates next weekend!  

Traveling around New Zealand  

The South Island is filled with mountains, beaches, lakes, hiking trails, and places that I had only seen in pictures. It is one thing to read about these places or see them online, but it is completely different to actually be there. 

During our midsemester break, I travelled to Queenstown and Milford Sound with friends. Experiences like that are a big part of why I wanted to study abroad in New Zealand in the first place.  

Balancing academics and adventure 

I’m used to studying almost 24/7 at my home university. Here, I have learned I can still be successful academically while making time for adventures, exploring, and simply enjoying where I am.  

Some of my favorite memories took shape when I decided to put the books down for a little while and go somewhere new. Whether it is a beach walk, a road trip, a hike, or simply spending time with friends, those experiences have become just as important to my semester as what I am learning in the classroom. 

A few months ago, New Zealand was a place on a map that I had always wanted to visit. Now, it is a place where I have made friends, explored new places, challenged myself, and created memories that I know I will carry with me long after I leave. And I still have plenty left to explore.  

Elizabeth S. | Washington and Lee University | University of Otago, New Zealand | Fall 2026