By Maia Trevelyan

Spending a semester abroad has been one of the most formative and eye-opening experiences of my academic and personal journey. It was a chance not just to study in a different environment, but to immerse myself in cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives far beyond what I had ever experienced in New Zealand.

The highlights

The highlight of my exchange was unquestionably the people I met. Connecting with students from around the world – each with their own stories, aspirations, and worldviews – gave me a deeper understanding of what life is like beyond our borders. Living as a foreigner and experiencing life as an “expat” helped me better understand what it means to navigate spaces where you’re constantly adapting. It also gave me insight into how others live, what they value, and how their environments have shaped their approaches to study, work, and relationships. It was a constant reminder of how much we can learn by listening to others’ lived experiences. More than that, it gave me a renewed appreciation for migrants and foreigners in New Zealand. Having experienced what it feels like to not fully understand the language, customs, or subtle social cues, I now feel a much deeper empathy toward those who are navigating life in a new country and culture.

The challenges

One of the biggest challenges I encountered was adjusting to norms and ways of life that were very different from what I was used to in New Zealand. The communication styles, attitudes toward authority, expectations in the classroom, and even social etiquette often required conscious adaptation. It was in those moments of discomfort and observation that I learned the most. I became aware of how deeply rooted our cultural behaviours are – and how easy it is to assume that our way is the default. Being forced to navigate these differences expanded my empathy, humility, and cultural intelligence.

What it all taught me

My exchange has profoundly shaped how I view the world and my place in it. It taught me to think beyond New Zealand – creatively, ambitiously, and critically. I realised that the way we do things at home is just one way, and not necessarily the most efficient or innovative. I was constantly inspired by how international students approached problems and brought new ideas to the table. It encouraged me to be bolder in my thinking, more willing to take risks, and more open to exploring unconventional pathways. I also developed a deep appreciation for the diverse work ethic and drive I saw in peers who were juggling high academic expectations, global aspirations, and multilingual fluency. It reminded me never to discount someone based on their English proficiency – brilliance, resilience, and creativity transcend language.

The effects of my exchange are already playing out in my life. I find myself benchmarking my goals and progress not just against a New Zealand context, but against international standards. While I’m mindful that constant comparison can be unproductive, I’ve learned the value of having global reference points. It pushes me to grow, to network more intentionally, and to keep learning. Having friendships with people from elite institutions around the world inspires me daily – not in a way that makes me feel “less than,” but in a way that fuels my own creativity and ambition. I’m not limited by what I know from home. Instead, I’m motivated by what I’ve seen and experienced abroad, and I’m determined to carry that energy with me into the future – both personally and professionally.

Looking ahead, I hope to one day leverage these international connections and experiences to benefit New Zealand. Our economy is increasingly tied to global markets, and having genuine relationships with future leaders, innovators, and collaborators across the world will be invaluable. Whether it’s fostering trade relationships, driving innovation, or bringing best practices home, I believe that my global network and mindset can contribute meaningfully to Aotearoa’s growth. My exchange hasn’t just changed the way I see the world – it’s deepened my sense of responsibility to bring that broader perspective back and apply it in ways that uplift my home country.