By: Michaela Pocock

Kia ora! My name’s Michaela Pocock—I’m 19 years old, from Auckland, New Zealand, and I study Sport and Human Performance at the University of Waikato in Tauranga. This semester, though, I’ve been lucky enough to swap surf patrols at the Mount for palm trees and golden sunsets in Hawaiʻi, where I’m studying Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.

Moving from New Zealand to Hawaiʻi was a big leap, but now it feels like a second home. The warm weather, laid-back lifestyle, and welcoming aloha spirit have made the transition so much easier. I live in student housing on campus, where there’s always something happening—from making s’mores on Friday nights to beach trips and group hikes. There’s such a sense of community here, and I’ve loved being part of it.

One of my highlights has been joining an intramural basketball team—and even better, our team won the tournament! Playing sports here has been an amazing way to meet people and stay active while still balancing study. I’ve also gone to heaps of UH sporting events, like Football, Volleyball, and Basketball games. The energy and school spirit are unreal—everyone dressed in green cheering “Go Bows!” is like something out of High School Musical.

Outside of uni, I’ve spent most weekends exploring the island—hiking crazy trails, snorkeling in crystal clear waters, and of course, surfing (would be rude not to!!). Every hike and beach trip shows me just how incredible this place is and reminds me just a little bit of home.

What’s made this experience truly special, though, are the people. I’ve met an amazing group of international friends from all around the world—Sweden, Australia, the UK, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, Belgium, and so many other places. We’ve created the kind of memories you never forget—from late-night beach swims to road trips around Oʻahu.

It’s hard to believe the semester’s already halfway through. Living and studying in Hawaiʻi has challenged me to grow more independent, adventurous, and open-minded. I’m so grateful for every moment here—and I can’t wait to see what the rest of this journey brings.