An awesome opportunity in Hawai’i.

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. Continue reading An awesome opportunity in Hawai’i.

Studying climate change in the Netherlands

Maastricht is a city built for students, and UCM’s problem-based learning system is unlike anything back home. Cordélia shares what it’s like to study climate change and ecology through a European lens, make friends through student events, and use the city as a launchpad for weekend travel across Europe. Continue reading Studying climate change in the Netherlands

Tay-tastic adventures across the US

I’m writing this at the end of a week alone in New York City. I’ve visited all the main attractions while simultaneously being annoyed by walking behind slow tourists with their heads down, navigating using Google Maps. I’ve been surrounded by people in trains, gondolas, narrow pavements, queues, elevators, and free museum exhibits (I’m Scottish after all), while simultaneously feeling lonely at times, missing friends, family, and a regular routine. Continue reading Tay-tastic adventures across the US

Exchange Expectations vs Reality

When people talk about going on exchange, it often sounds dramatic. It’s usually framed as academically intense or personally transformational — a period where everything changes and you return home as a completely different person.
My experience was definitely valuable and memorable, but the reality was a bit less dramatic. Continue reading Exchange Expectations vs Reality

Studying Abroad, Solo Travel & Spain

¡Feliz año nuevo a todos! Since my last blog post, the seasons have changed (but don’t be fooled, Spanish winter certainly isn’t cold!), and everyone has settled into the exam period. Studying for finals has actually been really exciting because it’s in a completely different environment compared to my past 5 semesters that have all been in Hamilton. Continue reading Studying Abroad, Solo Travel & Spain

Climate Change in the Netherlands

Hello, my name is Cordélia, I am 20 years old. I have finished my second year of my Bachelor of Climate Change, majoring in Ecology and Biodiversity. I am going on an exchange in Maastricht, in the Netherlands, for semester A of my third year. Continue reading Climate Change in the Netherlands

Travelling While Abroad: The Art of Making It Up As I Go  

I was able to travel before my exchange even started. I ended up spending over a week each in Canada, Italy, Greece, and Morocco, and spent time with family in England—all before arriving in Cardiff. It was a great way to start the semester. Continue reading Travelling While Abroad: The Art of Making It Up As I Go