Author Archives: amj5300

Coromandel Peninsula

This past Saturday, my friends and I rented a car and made our first day trip to Coromandel Peninsula. It was about a three hour drive total. Driving on the left side of the road wasn’t as weird as I expected (though I was just a passenger), but the curvy mountain roads we had to take made me squirm.

Halfway, we stopped in Thames, a small, quaint town. We arrived there no later than 9:30 but the town was lively and awake. The sidewalks were covered with tents and people (none younger than 55 or so, plus grand children) for an outdoor market. They had everything ranging from jewelry, to jelly, to mussel fritters, and books. Nothing in this town was a chain. It didn’t appear to be the fanciest of places, but I really loved its down to earth environment, as well as the mountainous surroundings.
Then we re-focused ourselves back en route towards our next destination, the hot water beaches. Wherever we saw a nice view and shoulder, we pulled aside and got out of the car just to appreciate the landscape a bit better. This freedom is definitely the best part of renting a car to see NZ. As sleepy as cars make me, I didn’t want to close my eyes for a second because the ride itself was absolutely beautiful. We finally arrived at the hot water beaches as it started to rain but that didn’t stop us. Unprepared, we dug with our hands to make a hot pool for us to sit in. The actual water is freezing but when you dig through the shore’s sand, steam comes up and the water is incredibly hot. The science behind it is something geothermal but can’t say I fully know yet. We dug our pool like children and laid their as the rain came down, not caring at all.
After attempting to wash off heaps of sand from my body, we got back in the car and headed towards Cathedral Cove. Our walk down was beautiful and we had the beach to ourselves– that is certainly a perk to being in NZ in “winter.” The sun came out for us and we all just sat back and admired how incredibly beautiful this place was. We spent hours here before getting back in the car to stop at a few more pretty sights then making our way to Paeroa, the home of L&P…the most popular NZ soft drink that my friends are obsessed with. They have multiple, huge L&P bottles throughout the town and signs about it adorn every building. Needless to say, they’re very proud of it. Other than that, there’s not much going on in this town. 

When we stopped for gas, we didn’t know what side the gas cap was on and clearly looked like newbies. When my friend got out of the car, a woman said, welcome to NZ!…and the man inside proceeded to laugh at our multiple attempts to “top up”. I think we were the 
most exciting thing to come into the town in days, so we didn’t take offense.

It was a fantastic day trip and I can’t wait for our next one! In the mean time, there’s uni to go to, but I don’t mind! I am really enjoying getting to know people in each of my classes and observing the students here versus back home.



Location: Auckland, NZ

Random Observations

Now that I have been here a bit over three weeks and am in my second week of classes, I have been able to take the time to make some general and knit-picky observations. This may be a random array of things I have noted, but nevertheless, I have found them interesting:

 

Everything on campus closes by midnight. I find this almost funny as so many American universities brag about their 24/7 study and food offerings. I’m not one to stay up late studying, but I think it’s a very healthy decision for the university to be closed by midnight.

 

Last Wednesday, I saw the first person wearing sweatpants on campus. No one here really dresses “athletically.” This is much different than Penn State where sweatshirts and sweatpants are the norm.

 

The Rec Centre has a Women’s Weight Room. It is a small room in a back corner with a few cardio machines, some free weights, and three or so pieces of lifting equipment. There is a sign outside it’s entry that reads “Women Only Beyond This Point.” I am definitely an advocate of promoting women to lift (there are signs everywhere about myths of “bulking up”), but at the same time, it bothers me that women can’t just lift with the “men.” I know it can be intimidating at Penn State too to pick up some free weights as all the huge guys around press more than they can handle, but we shouldn’t be encouraged to resort to some small room with less equipment.

 

None of the bathrooms here have paper towels. They have paper towel-like dispensers but with a reusable, revolving kind of cloth towel. You simply pull it down for a clean section. I think this is a great idea. It’s better than paper towel and better than hand dryers. Also, all the toilets have the two-button system to preserve water. I think it’s funny that at home, only newer eco-friendly buildings have such a feature where as here, and in Israel as I recall, even the most outdated facilities have this feature. I am happy to see the world conserve its resources.

 

Drivers here are terrible.

 

Crosswalks make a strange beeping sound in addition to changing from the red hand to a green walking man. It should raise your awareness but after hearing it a few times, you don’t even notice anymore.

Sometimes, traffic is set up so that all lights are red. This is in the main parts of the city. So, corners build up with masses of people, then all at once, chaos breaks out as people cross left, right, diagonally, and you do your best to not run over anyone while getting where you need. I find this quite amusing.

 

So, perhaps I thought I had a few more (and more significant) observations but they’re currently eluding me. So, to keep with the randomness, here are some photos from my sunrise run yesterday! My flatmate and I just did about 7.5 miles total so this is all relatively near to where we’re living (yes, we carried a camera while running).

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Seeing this never gets old

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Yes, we got a killer sunrise and a beautiful rainbow in one run. That’s what you get for starting your run in clouds, then rain, then sun, I suppose. There were two rainbows and they were very bold at one point but it was difficult to capture on camera…of course.

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I know it’s dark, but, that is me sporting my lovely Penn State shirt (always PSU proud) towards the end of our run. This is right along the path we ran on. We looked ridiculously tourist-y, but oh well.


Location: Auckland, NZ

Student Life

This week, I finished my first official week of classes at the University of Auckland. The freedom and fun of the first week or so has now been limited by the reality that we are, in fact, here to study. But, of course, I don’t mind; Everything is still so new and exciting.

I am enrolled in four engineering courses here (easier said than done). Three of them include lectures, which are similar to home. However, their lecture halls are way less comfortable. I will be much more grateful for our desks and arm rests upon my return. These also have smaller, supporting recitations that I enjoy. My favorite class is about twenty people. I met one of the students outside of class who informed me that all the students in that major know each other very well. In other words, it’s obvious I am international. This statement made me chuckle; I am that new person that no one has ever seen. I am entering their normal world with a whole different perspective. So far, I’ve learned that merely being a woman in engineering and not wearing black automatically makes me stand out like a sore thumb.
I like the challenge of trying to integrate but also have greater appreciation and respect for the community I have formed for myself back at Penn State. While I see these students here with their long established friend groups and clubs, I know I too have that back home. It is exciting to start forming my new community abroad. My friends from the first few days I was here remain my best friends, meal, and travel buddies.
As part of integrating, I am looking into trying something new (tramping club) and perhaps something I’m more familiar with but curious to see from a new group (rowing). This past weekend, I signed up for a trip with tramping, or hiking, club. We went out to the Hunua Ranges where we hiked and stayed in cabins. It was overcast and muddy but an excellent time. It was nice interacting with actual Kiwis and people who appreciate the outdoors. Everyone was very kind, down to earth, and no one complained (rare when walking/hiking for hours).
The winter in Auckland is now in full force (rain rain rain). I am very grateful for packing a good raincoat and rain boots. Luckily, rain doesn’t put me down or keep my friends and I in. We booked our plane tickets to go to the South Island over semester break at the end of August so we are looking forward to planning that trip as well as some other weekend trips!

Location: Auckland, NZ

Soaking It All In

I have officially been here a little over a week. Yet, in that week I feel like I have done and seen so much. I have been keeping track in a journal but find it hard to sum up everything in a blog. I have seen some of the most beautiful sights without traveling more than an hour from where I’m living. Also, I have  made an awesome group of friends that make it hard to believe I’ve only known them 10 days. Together, we have just been trying to soak up all the beauty around us and are constantly reminded how grateful we are to be here. The enthusiasm from the students, community, and university have really made my experiences so far extremely enjoyable.
The university seems like a great place. Through international orientation events, they have really welcomed us and reminded us that our studies are important but that we need to really experience NZ while were here and not just the library. All the staff and students have been so warm and welcoming. When the chancellor of the university welcomed hundreds of us international students at the start of orientation, I couldn’t help but be in awe at the concept of study abroad/exchange. It made me happy to see, and be part of, the room of eager and excited students from around the world who share the value of going abroad.
Anyways, here’s some of what the last few days have looked like:

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This is one of many pictures from the top of Mt. Eden, the highest natural point in Auckland. It offered a beautiful 360 view of the city. We didn’t know what to do so decided to head here on a whim. It’s nice to be able to walk so many places and have a variety of options of what to do and see. My friends and I have made a checklist of things we want to do before the semester ends and, so far, it’s a pretty great way to plan our days!
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Upon arriving off the ferry to Waiheke Island…extremely beautiful day
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Oneroa beach at the island. It was absolutely gorgeous. I think we spent about over 2 hours walking in the water and just sitting in awe. While exploring the island, we must have walked at least 10 miles. It left us crazily tired and hungry but was well worth it. Sometimes, riding a bus just isn’t the same. Also, we noticed here that the sun really is stronger than we’re used to. Apparently, the ozone here is thinner or non-existant so the sun feels that much warmer and it is easy to burn. I didn’t burn though, no worries!
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A view from the bridge walk we did across Auckland Bridge and further justification why Auckland is referred to as the “City of Sails”
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A view of Auckland/some of the North Island from the summit of Rangitoto Island. We hiked to the top and I’m not going to lie, it wasn’t the easiest walk. It was quite rocky and steep but so many people do it. I have noticed the people here are extremely active. There’s always runners and bikers any day any time. I have been fortunate to find a running friend here. We have seen some awesome sunrises over the water and stopped at some beaches during our runs…not a bad way to get some miles in.
That’s all for now. We’re about to head to a local farmer’s market. Food here is extremely expensive but we have found some places with great deals. My group of friends has been rotating cooking dinner for each other so that’s also been a good time! Classes start Monday…yikes! But, nevertheless, I’m still excited for my next few months here.

Location: Auckland, NZ

July 2nd & 4th…but not the 3rd

So, I may never have experienced July 3, 2012 because of the dateline, but, hey, what can ya do?

 Kia ora,


Or hello/greetings from NZ

 In advance, sorry for the length.


 I’m sitting at the desk that will be mine for the next five or so months. It’s hard to sit myself down to write right now but know it I need to stop and take a moment to absorb my trip so far. Luckily, it’s raining a good bit on and off so that is allowing me to stay in for a bit. First off, I am still unable to get internet- so, sorry Mom and Dad; I’m safe! I am the only person in my “flat,” or apartment so far. I am glad I am able to get established, unpacked, and comfortable before my other flatmates join me.


 Anyways, starting from leaving my home in Solon, OH. It’s weird to leave your house knowing it won’t be there when you come back. It was sad to say goodbye to my room and home where I have so many memories but I realized I had to look ahead to the more positive future.


 (Figures, now it’s sunny-it’s like I’m still in Cleveland where the weather changes every 5 minutes.)


 I finished up my packing- it only took the strength and hands of my mom, dad, and myself to shut each of my suitcases, and headed to Hopkins International. My bag weighed exactly 50 lbs, such a relief.


 My first flight was the LA. I have flown to California many times before so I wasn’t too nervous. A woman asked me to switch seats so her Mom and her kids’ grandma could sit closer. I didn’t mind at all. But, I’m sure they felt slightly relieved and guilty when I ended up next to THAT baby, that baby who cries 4 of the 4 hour 22 minute plane ride. I could tell people were getting annoyed, but I oddly didn’t mind. The boy was absolutely adorable. In talking to his Mom (while giving him high fives to distract him, of course), I learned they were from Melbourne, Australia. She had a very atypical Australian accent, though, which I found interesting. I was immediately excited to be already encountering people from the area I was heading.


 After that, I had what should have been a relaxing three-hour layover. But, in an airport like LA’s, where you must exit the airport, take a shuttle to another terminal, re-check-in, and go through security again, the layover turned out to be unexpectedly not-so-relaxing. Luckily, I had enough time to get a sandwich (it’s easy to forget to eat while traveling) and make some last-minute phone calls to my friends and family.


 Then it hit me; I was about to get on the plane for 12 hours to New Zealand?! I have flown for maximum of 9 hours before, but something about 12 seemed very daunting. As I made my way to the back of the plane, I was at first a tad disappointed to see I was sitting with an older couple versus maybe a student in a similar situation. I instantly regretted any disappointment I felt because this couple was absolutely awesome. They were so eager and enthusiastic to hear about what I was doing and they told me they were from Nelson (on the South Island of NZ, but the wife used to live in NZ). We engaged in discussion for a while, but then, sans Benadryl or anything, I slept most of the plane ride. The man I sat next to was in disbelief I could sleep so well. Because the majority of the flight was dark, I knew I wasn’t missing any cool views. Also, the reason I have no plane-landing picture is because I couldn’t see anything out the window. Each time the plane hit violent turbulence (ALL the time, may I add), I clenched my eyes shut and just pretended it was bumps on a road (advice I got a few weeks back). The stewardess kept shoving me food, but on such a nauseating ride, I’m not sure how anyone could think about food. I took it to be polite and shared it with my seatmates. People on both planes helped me put my carry-on in the overhead bin as well as took it out without me even asking. It’s nothing hard to do but I was still impressed at people’s immediate kindness.


 Some differences on the plane ride:

Everything was so happy and not as serious as American airlines. This made me both nervous and relaxed.

The bathroom was the NICEST airplane bathroom I have ever been in. It had a sort of mural on the wall and was super clean with music playing.

They talk A LOT over the speaker and are very thorough in addressing all different kinds of passengers.

Their initial safety video is so long and more of a joke than anything.

The stewardesses look high fashion and wear uniform, sophisticated buns

 (It’s raining again)


 At the end of the ride, the couple I sat with, Chris and Cluril? (his writing is sloppy), gave me their address, phone number, and email and said when I come visit Nelson, as I had planned to anyways, they would be happy to house me for a few nights and show me the best sites, especially for hiking (aka bush climbing??) –I was so excited and really hope to take advantage of this offer.


 From Chris, I also learned two NZ terms:

He owns a gardening/yard business called “Gumboots” aka rainboots or galaches

The stewardesses offer hard candies at the end of the ride by asking, would you like a “sweet?”

 I finally concluded that part of why Chris seemed so cool was that he COMPLETELY resembled Robin Williams (his look and accent/how he spoke) in “Goodwill Hunting,” one of my favorite characters and movies. I blabbed and told him. In response, he told me had seen it and said, isn’t that the crazy professor? I hope he was just kidding around because it really is a compliment!


 After this ride, I went through customs and all that fun stuff which took about an hour. I found my driver, provided by the university, waiting for me and relaxed while waiting for two other boys. I met the two other boys, who both sound like their first names are Martin and whose last names differ by maybe one letter. They are friends from the same university in Germany where they both study Mechanical Engineering. Turns out we are all enrolled in a class together here, so hopefully I see them again as we forgot to exchange contact information…oops. We chatted and then it hit me; English wasn’t their native language. You may respond “no duh,” but, honestly, aside from their accent, I would have never questioned their ability to speak and understand until they explicitly expressed their nervousness about the language barrier. I love when one of them asked the driver which way the nightlife is after the driver told us which way the university is.


 (It’s sunny now.)


 They got dropped off first in a so-so looking apartment complex. Then, to get to where I’m living we went through a gorgeous park where I cannot wait to run. My walk to Uni is definitely going to be significant, but I am happy, for now, that I chose to live in this residence. I have my own room that I love. My “RA” seemed surprised when he unlocked the door to my room. He exclaimed, wow, this one’s larger than the others; this is like what I have. Now, it’s nothing extravagant but definitely comfortable and I’m beyond excited because my neighbor and I have our own balcony.


 I still don’t feel like I am going to be here until November. I am not sure when everything will hit, but I shall certainly let you know!


 P.S. There are more sheep than people in NZ. About 4:1, in fact. He believes if they evolve just a bit more, and then recruit milking cows to be their soldiers (another high population), the people of NZ could easily be overtaken.

 


Location: Auckland, NZ

44 hours until departure…but who’s counting?

I wanted to get in one last pre-departure post as everything is getting closer. I am getting more and more excited as well as more nervous. I find myself googling about the University of Auckland and New Zealand multiple times a day in search of any important information there may be that I should, yet don’t, know yet.

Last night I had some friends over to say goodbye for the next few months. We watched the olympic trials together and I realized that watching the olympics abroad with students from all different countries is going to be a pretty cool experience in itself. I absolutely love the summer olympics and hope I can stil catch them despite time differences and classes being in session! Starting classes so soon (mid-July) is also boggling my mind–it seems like I just left Penn State for the summer.
Anyways, packing is a challenge as I expected. As someone infamous for overpacking, condensing a semester’s worth of needs and wants into a reasonable, meets-the-standards suitcase and carry on seems like mission impossible. Not to mention, my parents are moving out of our house four days after I leave, so I am also preoccupied with organizing, sorting, and packing up all of my other belongings. But here’s how it’s looking so far!
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I got these air-tight bags from my sister…hopefully they help contain my overpacking. And, don’t be deceived, I have another load of laundry in the dryer yet.
The quick transition from summer here to winter there is going to be a bit awkward but hopefully I pack correctly for it! In checking the forecast, it looks like a lot of rain, but after my time so far in Happy Valley, I’m pretty sure it’s nothing I can’t handle. My rain boots may be taking up a lot of space, but they are definitely coming along for the trip. 
I am taking tomorrow to relax and enjoy my last day of summer as I continue to get together all my last-minute packing. Next time I post, I will be going it from New Zealand! 

Location: Auckland, NZ

Anticipation

The reality that I am finally studying abroad hit just a few days ago at the realization that I have one month until departure. I am both excited and nervous for the upcoming semester I will spend in Auckland, New Zealand at University of Auckland.

Coming into college, I did not  know what I wanted to study but knew, at some point, I wanted to go abroad. I wanted to travel here and there but I also wanted that true experience in another country for an entire semester. At last, the time for this opportunity has come. As a recently declared industrial engineering major with a strict curriculum, I feared the possibility to study abroad would no longer be an option for me. However, I decided to take some initiative in researching and communicating with both abroad and engineering faculty at Penn State. I am fortunate I did because in the process I found out Penn State has an exchange program with Auckland where I will be able to take 3 engineering courses towards my major. Additionally, I have met some great faculty both in the abroad and IE departments who have helped me immensely in making this experience possible.

I have fallen in love with Penn State- the town, the campus, my friends, and the crew team. These things make it incredibly difficult to leave for a semester, but nevertheless, I am excited for this new adventure. I am nervous about classes, being in a city, and arriving partway through their school year, but am looking forward meeting new people, learning as much in and out of class, and traveling to see the beautiful sights that New Zealand is known for.


Location: Auckland, New Zealand