My Semester Abroad: Finding Peace in New Zealand

I didn’t know one semester could reshape my entire perspective, but my experience in New Zealand proved me wrong. Study abroad was something I have been excited about since high school. I couldn’t wait for the chance to live somewhere new. I was confident with my decision to study in New Zealand and arrived with a list of places I wanted to see before I left.  

Coping with nerves 

In the few weeks leading up to arriving in New Zealand, I felt nervous about my trip for the first time. My freshman year had been filled with many ups and downs. I feared study abroad would bring the same struggles I had felt while balancing meeting new friends with intense schoolwork and finding time for my own hobbies and interests. During the 13-hour plane ride from California to Auckland, I had time to reflect on my goals for my trip and remember the excitement I had felt for years to have this opportunity.  

We landed and I made it through the strict whirlwind of New Zealand customs to find a group of students just as nervous and excited as I was. During orientation weekend, I challenged myself to be extra social and get to know everyone. We spent many hours talking about our backgrounds and the pieces of our study abroad that we were looking forward to the most. I left the weekend with friends in Auckland and Canterbury.  

Building friendships and confidence  

My time in Christchurch was spent in the best way possible. I gained genuine friendships with my IFSA group, as well as friends from weekly soccer matches and classes. My fondest memories were two for one curry nights at Zyka’s Indian Restaurant, a spontaneous trip to Wellington to watch the All Blacks professional rugby team, and adventures through campus clubs. I challenged myself by ziplining in Queenstown, learning to surf at New Brighton beach, and learning to navigate public transportation for the first time in my life. By the end of my trip, I felt confident in my ability to navigate the city.  

Lessons from Christchurch  

Kiwi lifestyle brought me clarity and a sense of peace that is hard to find in the fast pace of American culture. I was able to appreciate little things, like ducklings waddling by on my way to class, cherry blossoms blowing on the afternoon breeze, and the smell of fresh meat pies from the library cafe.  

The best advice I can give is to appreciate the time you have. Be present. Break out of your comfort zone at least once a week. Make an effort to immerse yourself in the culture so that by the end of your journey, your study abroad city feels like a second home. 

Madison B. | Oregon State University | University of Canterbury, New Zealand | Fall 2024