I have to admit, I have been procrastinating this post. Of course, part of this procrastination comes from being overwhelmed back in the US. But, most of all, it comes from denial. Writing my wrap-up blog post is just further confirmation that my semester abroad has come to an end. There’s so much in NZ and so much in the US that I have to be thankful for, but I can’t help but long for my NZ life a bit each day during this transitional period.

 

Sometimes, I have to stop myself from saying or writing “end of the experience,” instead of “end of the semester.” There really is a huge difference implied.

 

In my view of things, study abroad is really a bunch of phases. “Phase One” consists of pre-study abroad ambitions and planning.” This one seems to have a definitive end.

 

Phase Two” is the actual semester. Of course, there are plenty of sub-phases consisting of hesitations, doubt, excitement, travel, discovery, and much more. Again, this phase has an end.

 

I’m not sure how many phases there are after this point, but I’d say even more sub-phases compose the grand “Phase Three.” They’re marked by any situation we encounter and view or approach a new way based on what we learned while abroad. Other sub-phases include reunions, continued contact, and updates. Ultimately, “Phase Three” should be ongoing because we stay in contact with our friends and hold onto our lessons, memories, and experiences.

 

I think it’s a shame to view the end of my semester abroad as the end of my experience. Really, it has opened up the door for many things to come.

 

In reflecting upon my experience, here’s some further advice I have to give:

 

-Take initiative:

Don’t let your major limit your options to study abroad. Don’t let class restraints stop you from trying to enroll. Don’t wait for someone to organize a trip for a place you want to go. If you want to make the most of your time in another country, you must be a leader and make plans. This is definitely a long-term perk as well: leadership development!

 

-Be independent:

Similar to taking initiative, but stemming from specific observations…Initially, I was disappointed I was doing an “exchange” and not a “study abroad program.” In other words, I was mostly on my own (though the education abroad advisors are an excellent help!!) to figure out classes (the petitioning process is not easy; start early!!), housing, trips, etc. I thought I wanted more support.

I ended up being one of the first students in my housing and made many European friends. A few days later, Americans on a program bombarded the dorm. I was slightly embarrassed; they were on a program with their own trips and orientation and stayed to themselves. I thought it was a shame to see many of them not branch out of their program bubble and even made Americans look a bit close-minded. I do think these programs can be great, but definitely be aware and try not to get sucked into the exclusive nature I observed!

 

-Make a list:

Do some research before you leave of things you MUST do. But, don’t do too much research or facebook stalking or you’re just going to ruin that “wow” moment that comes from seeing things for the first time. I made a list with my friends near the beginning of the semester and it was fun to check things off as we went along, or look to it on a weekend we were at a loss for what to do. A general list is good, because, in the end, the unplanned and unanticipated things are going to be some of the most memorable.

 

-Put the camera down:

Take some pictures and then stop! Things you see will never look as great the second time or on a 4×6 so don’t lose the moment trying to capture it. Sit, stand, walk, swim, do whatever you have to do  to truly appreciate what you’re experiencing.

 

-Immerse yourself:

Befriending other exchange students is awesome. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet a wide range of people. However, take a step away sometimes from the “international student” role and try to just be a student like everyone else. Befriend locals, chat with professors, and talk to other students in classes. In my opinion, investing myself in the university made my experience that much richer!

 

-Don’t save big things for your last trip:

This may not apply to everyone, but my the end of the semester, my friends and I were all so physically and emotionally exhausted (more than we anticipated) that we didn’t have the gusto for a huge trip and were grateful we had a chill, go-with-the-flow, last trip.

 

To those of you still abroad, enjoy every minute! I’ve enjoyed reading your posts throughout the semester and look forward to continue reading about your experiences!

Location: Auckland, NZ