By: Izzy Steane

Kia ora!

My name is Izzy Steane, and I’m currently studying towards a Bachelor of Sport and Human Performance at the University of Waikato. This year, I’m super excited to be heading overseas to study abroad at Purdue University Fort Wayne in the United States.

I was born in Cheltenham, England, but I’ve lived in New Zealand since I was four, so Aotearoa feels like home. Since finishing high school, I’ve had a constant drive to travel and explore new places. I enjoy stepping into new situations, seeing how other people live, and learning from different environments. I’ve found I grow the most when I challenge myself like that.

Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine, immersing myself in a new culture and way of life. I’m looking forward to experiencing American campus life, getting involved in student and sports culture, and seeing how sports science is taught in a different academic setting.

The process of getting everything organised, especially the visa, definitely had its stressful moments. Between paperwork, embassy appointments, and waiting for approvals, it felt like a bit of a mission at times. I’ve stayed focused on why I want to do this, and even though a few things are still being finalised, I’m really looking forward to getting over there and starting the experience.

If you’re thinking about studying overseas, I’d say go for it. Even just preparing for the journey has already taught me a lot, and I’m looking forward to everything I’ll learn once I’m there. It can be a bit of a process, but the experience is worth it.