When I first thought of studying abroad, especially for those who want to head across the pond to Europe, I wanted to be a traveler. By that I mean, I wanted to experience as many different places as I could during my time abroad. And that was fun! Take it from me, I did it. But ask anything about my favorite experiences abroad and it likely won’t come from the weekend destination checklist I had.
And while there is nothing wrong with that (except the large hole it can create in your wallet), I’d like you to ask yourself how you can create the most meaningful and worthwhile experience during your time outside of the U.S.. Let’s be honest, there's no way you can truly experience a new place, and delve into a new culture in two or three days. You can’t even begin to scratch the surface.
Listen, I’m not saying don’t travel to new countries, especially if you can afford it and if that's what you want. Just know what you're getting yourself into. So you can decide how you want to spend your semester - I thought I would share some ways I’ve spent my semesters abroad.
This semester at the University of Auckland, in Aotearoa (New Zealand), I have, for the first time (guilty…) actually committed to joining clubs on campus. The hiking club (called tramping here), and the surfing club, have already been some of the most worthwhile clubs I’ve joined. Almost every weekend there are hikes, beach days, and trips all across the country! And better yet, more budget friendly. Instead of jet setting to nearby countries, I’ve spent my time here so far exploring the North Island and Auckland. I’ve signed up for cultural events - had the opportunity to be welcomed into and sleep in the Maori Marae on campus, a very significant cultural space. I’ve driven up the Coromandel Peninsula and stayed in a tiny home. And I’m in the midst of planning a trip to do the great Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
If there's one thing I can take away from my time in New Zealand thus far, it's that I truly feel excited to be here, present in this wonderful place, and immersing myself in the culture, without the stress and chaos of trying to book a flight every weekend to check off a destination. Don’t get me wrong, my mid-semester break is this next week and I am STOKED to head to the south island to see all the headline destinations including the Milford Sound, Fjordlands, and Queenstown, and I might try to plan a trip to a Pacific Island while I am here. But for now, I am truly at peace just exploring what this beautiful island and culture has to offer.
So, when you’re planning your study abroad, consider how you wish to spend your time. If you want to be a globetrotter, then absolutely do it. But also make sure to consider how you can make your time in your new home worthwhile and meaningful, so you can be both a traveler and immerse yourself in the local culture and ways of life.
Sydney Molaver
Spring 2024
GW Exchange - University of Auckland
Columbian College of Arts and Science
Environmental Studies Major
The Global Bachelor's Program