By: Manaia Wetere-Ryder

Kia ora, my name is Manaia. I’m currently in my fourth year of study, working towards a double degree in Law and History as part of my Bachelor of Laws programme.

I’m about to embark on one of the most significant and life‑changing experiences of my journey so far. This Semester B, I’ll be heading to Glasgow, Scotland on exchange—something I’ve hoped for and worked towards for a while now. I’ll be studying at the University of Glasgow, a campus that excites me academically and socially and—much to my inner child’s delight—was one of the inspirations behind the Harry Potter films.

This exchange has been a goal of mine since my very first year at university. When I learned about Waikato’s global experiences, the excitement around it was infectious. The idea that I could study overseas, immerse myself in a new culture, and bring that knowledge back into my degree here lit something in me. And, of course, the chance to travel didn’t hurt either. I’ve always been drawn to historical places and stories, and Scotland is full of them, from iconic media inspirations to real moments in history I’ve long wanted to experience firsthand. The University of Glasgow stood out to me because of its rich and diverse legal offerings. It provides opportunities to study legal systems in far greater depth, especially those that differ from what we learn in Aotearoa. That really excited me — the idea that I could immerse myself in a completely different legal landscape and bring those insights back into my degree. Glasgow’s programme feels like the perfect blend of academic challenge, cultural experience, and personal growth.

On paper, this exchange feels like the perfect opportunity — a chance to learn, explore, and immerse myself in something completely new. But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous about the cultural differences and the shift to a new university environment. I’ve always been a bit shy, and meeting new people has never come naturally to me. To be transparent, there are moments where the scale of it all feels intimidating. But then I remember the first‑year version of myself who wanted this more than anything, who saw this journey as a chance to grow. Honouring that version of me matters. I’m hopeful that stepping into a new environment will help me uncover a braver, more confident side of myself, one that learns to thrive in unfamiliar spaces.

I am very excited for this chance to expand my knowledge and culture in a new environment and am hopeful for what comes with it.