I’m about a week out from leaving for a quick trip to LA and then finally off to New Zealand! I’ve been reflecting on why I actually decided to study abroad and how making it a reality has changed my view.
To be honest, what motivated my study abroad search was watching (via social media) one of my best friends study abroad in Australia. It made me realize that I only had one more semester to take advantage of the opportunities that study abroad opens up. I’m looking to absorb the differences in New Zealand’s culture, especially how they handle conservation and sustainability in their beautiful environment.
Being just a few days away, I am mentally preparing for what studying abroad will actually mean for me. Reliving entering a university, creating friendships and exploring a new city all hold apprehensions but also a lot of excitement. Already, my first week in New Zealand, I will be traveling (and camping!) with one of my classes to visit environmental conservancy groups farther north of Auckland. I really want to observe the cultural and political differences that make New Zealand able to maintain its environment.
Other than my environmental studies, my goal is to create long-lasting friendships with kiwis and learn how their lives differ from my own in Boston and hopefully adopt their positive attributes. I cannot wait to meet new people and start my adventure in this beautiful city.
