IES Abroad: Christchurch Direct Enrollment - University Of Canterbury

Spending a semester abroad was more than just taking courses in another country for a couple of months. The experience impacted me in every way imaginable. I experienced the unknown a lot while I was abroad – public transportation, Kiwi slang, Māori language and culture, Tim Tam Slams – and each of these experiences is a memory ... Reeves Goettee - Wofford College

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I learned how to be more independent; especially when I travelled by myself. I learned how to engage with other cultures and peoples. I also think that through studying abroad I gained a greater appreciation of how connected the world is. Lucas Tomhave - Gustavus Adolphus College

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I learned how to be an independent person in the world, and how to navigate life without anyone really holding my hand! Tess Vande Creek - University of Rochester

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I didn't know anybody when going into the program and left with so so many new friendships, many of which will last forever. I learned to step out of my comfort zone and speak to people you don't know. I became pretty proficient in backpacking and planning travel/hikes. A student - Texas Christian University

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My semester studying abroad at University of Canterbury through IES Abroad was one long road trip, both literally and figuratively speaking. Literally, it was a semester full of spontaneous weekend (and weekday, sometimes) road trips. These trips taught me so much about myself, about others, and about this incredible, diverse co... Sarah Hedberg - Purdue University

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I gained a sense of independence in an entirely new country and an appreciation for the beauty of the earth and outdoors. A student - University of Virginia

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I learned more about myself; I became more self-confident. And of course, I gained a lot of friendships, and learning more about a new country and culture. Sarah Bruihler - Gustavus Adolphus College

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I gained a lot of understanding of New Zealand culture. I also learned a lot about myself by traveling half way around the world! It was definitely very worthwhile. Amanda - Skidmore College

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The best thing I gained from my semester in Christchurch was definitely independence. Although I spent a lot of time in Christchurch and traveling with friends I made, I also did some solo travel. In preparation for that, it is entirely your responsibility to plan and figure out what you will do. If there are things going on bac... A student - Skidmore College

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Specifically thinking about differences between my home uni and UC, I learned that just because I have been taught to learn one way does not mean that is the only way. Although it was tricky to adjust to UC's system at first, ultimately I came away from the semester with good grades and a new appreciation for how large universit... Olivia Skatrud - Hope College

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I made great friends, made tons of memories, went on countless adventures, appreciated a relaxed lifestyle, and gained travel experience for my next endeavors. A student - University of Maine - Orono

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I learned so much about myself and the world, and would do it over and over again! Sam S - Hope College

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I spent the fall semester of my junior year in Christchurch, and I regard it as one of the best experiences of my life. The social climate and way of life is laid back and foreigners are welcomed with genuine friendliness. Kiwis are extremely hospitable and outgoing people; I found getting to know them really enriched my experie... Alexandra K - University of Rochester

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