By Makaia Trueman

Kia Ora, my name is Makaia Trueman, and I am currently in my second year of university, studying towards a Bachelor of Business with a double major in Strategic Management and Māori and Indigenous Studies. I am choosing to go on an exchange this year to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself in ways I never imagined. Travelling solo is an exciting opportunity to learn more about myself and grow personally and academically. I am especially looking forward to exploring new places and experiencing a different culture. Studying business overseas will also be perfect for my degree, as it will give me insight into how business operates globally.

Later this year, I’ll be attending Cardiff University in Wales. I chose to go somewhere in Europe as it is the perfect place to be able to travel, and for cheap. I have heard you can travel all around Europe via train and with cheap flights, and I can’t wait to experience that firsthand. I also have Welsh ancestry, making it an ideal and meaningful place to reconnect with. What excites me most about the exchange is meeting new people, immersing myself in a different lifestyle, and visiting places that you only see in the movies. By the end of my exchange, I hope to form lasting friendships and create memories that I can one day tell my kids.

Ngā Mihi,

Makaia