By: Leia Miller

My name is Leia Millar, and I am a second-year Bachelor of Science student majoring in Ecology at the University of Waikato. I chose to go on exchange because I wanted the opportunity to travel, experience a different culture, and learn through new teaching and learning styles. I’m excited to meet people from around the world, make new connections, immerse myself in their culture and challenge myself by studying in a completely new environment.

I chose the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa because of its strong ecological environment, as well as the opportunity to continue pursing my surfing. Through this exchange, I hope to build meaningful connections with new people, become more independent, develop my adaptability by living and studying overseas. I am looking forward to gaining both personal and academic growth from this awesome opportunity.