New Zealand Educated

I went to Lincoln High School for a year from July 2007 until June 2008. From the first day on I liked this school. It was quite different from what I was used to in Germany. The school grounds were much bigger and there were different areas for different subjects. The school system was totally different anyway. What I really liked about school in New Zealand is that there's not as much stress and the atmosphere is more relaxed. At first it was difficult to get used to spending more time at school since school didn't finish until 3 pm. On my first day everyone was extremely welcoming and helpful. The International Student Department looks after the international students well and helps everyone if they have a problem. The teachers are really supportive, too. Quite often there is lunchtime tutorials for everyone who needs help with homework or didn't understand what was taught in class. I suggest every German student to take Sciences and Maths. Thanks to the Science teachers from Lincoln I've learned a lot and I am a good student now. It was not only the teachers who were nice and welcoming. The other students at Lincoln were also supportive at the beginning and it was easy to get to know people and find great new friends. I was lucky with my host family, too. We got along very well and they showed me around and took me to places like Mt. Cook or the West Coast. Of course it wasn't easy at the beginning. Being an only child it's hard to be on your own and do everything on your own without parents who could help. But with the days passing by, it only got better. At the beginning everything was new and I didn't know anyone but when I got used to the different lifestyle, I soon really enjoyed living there. So I had a great time in New Zealand. It helped to improve my English and I learnt a lot, not only in class but also about myself and the country. Best of all I met heaps of nice people and made a lot of friends who I'm still in touch with. I can only recommend spending a year abroad. It was probably the best decision I've ever made so far.

Living in Wellington is very convenient. Everywhere is within 15 minutes' walk, and I love the outdoor life which home does not offer. I get up early and go for a row in the harbour, run up to the hills and feel like the king of Wellington at the top and ride my bike on the world-renowned mountain bike tracks. The friends I've made in sport have been a great support to me in my study and life in Wellington. My Victoria experience has truly transformed me into an independent young man. I have also grown in my appreciation of the spiritual dimensions of life through the challenges I have encountered. I want a career in consulting through which I can contribute my knowledge and skill to the growth of society.

'Although the weather may feel quite cold at times compared with California, Wellington has a safe and relaxed atmosphere with reliable public transportation. Victoria University has a diverse base of international students from all over the world.'