My name is Amelie and I will be completing a certificate in politics, having completed my bachelors of business, majoring in supply chain management and digital business in 2025.

I have chosen the United Kingdom because it represents both a personal journey and professional stepping stone for me. My father is a kiwi and my mother is a dual UK and NZ citizen. I feel this experience offers a unique opportunity for me to reconnect with my heritage in a meaningful way, on my mother’s side of the family. In New Zealand I know we are in a small pond, I am excited to have the opportunity to take a look at the ocean. This exchange was a great opportunity to deepen my understanding of international trade and global economies along with the political and geopolitical environment in the UK and EU. The UK’s role, as one of the world’s top ten export economies and its proximity to the European market, make it an ideal location to learn more about these topics. I believe this will be an invaluable learning experience and an opportunity for me.

As a student with dyslexia and a medical condition that greatly impacts my life, I have chosen the University of Liverpool specifically because of the accessibility options they offer through their Disability Advice and Guidance department (DAG).

One of the most important accessibility features for me is the option to apply for “priority accommodation” for students with physical disability and medical conditions that impact necessities for living circumstances. After registering with the DAG department I was able to discuss the logistics of my medical condition with them. They then reached out to the accommodation department to help me access appropriate accommodation.

Additionally the DAG department provides many different options for assistive/useful technology for students with learning difficulties, such as myself, along with the general exam accommodations similar to what is able to be accessed at the University of Waikato.

During my exchange I hope to learn about myself through stepping outside of my comfort zone and experiencing living in a new country and culture.

I hope to connect with new people from diverse backgrounds and build meaningful relationships with people and learn from their experiences and worldviews. Ultimately, I hope my exchange will shape me into a more confident, independent, and globally aware individual, who is able to contribute positively to both my community.