Discovering Aotearoa: My Journey from Phoenix to Auckland

Kia Ora, everybody! Coming from sunny Phoenix, AZ, Auckland was a nice change of scenery. The greenery around my campus and the views were unbeatable. I have learned a lot about the world, sustainability, and myself.

Let’s start with what I learned about the world. The world is not as intimidating as I thought; some of you might have the same fears or relate to this. I had a massive fear of traveling alone and flying overseas, but as it turns out, the most challenging part was taking the first step.

My flight from the States to New Zealand was less scary than I expected. There was good food and interesting shows, and I slept well, so I couldn’t complain! My only advice would be to pack a good pair of noise-canceling headphones.

Something different about Aotearoa is they make it a point to be as sustainable as possible. I didn’t expect it when I came here, but cafes and grocery stores have entirely done away with plastic for the most part. If you stay at the cafe to drink, they will put your drink in a mug or reusable cup. It’s revolutionary, and I wish this were an option in Arizona.

The local grocery store (Woolworths/Countdown) also uses paper bags. I would recommend against it because the damp air makes the bags more likely to tear. You can buy reusable bags at Woolworths/Countdown or bring tote bags or your school backpack to the store to carry things.

As for myself, I have grown more as a person, professionally and personally, throughout my time across the pond. I conquered fears, had fun, and learned all that I could. I will tell everyone studying abroad to take advantage of every opportunity. Seize the moments because this is your opportunity to grow and build your soft skills. You will learn more about soft skills if you decide to complete the micro-credentials through TEAN.

These micro-credentials are incredible opportunities to help students grow in three categories: career readiness, interculturalism, and sustainability. I would highly recommend all three because you learn crucial information and skills that can help you in the future. Plus, they’re just fun to do. They don’t feel like work because the assignments are fun and very informative. Plus, these credentials will look great on your LinkedIn profiles.

Here is some advice for incoming students: Don’t be afraid to get out there. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so you should make the most of it. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there or try something new, but don’t forget to take time for yourself. There will be times that it seems hard, so I suggest calling friends and family regularly or bringing things from home.

I brought a squishmallow (his name is Paul “the Plague Doctor” Aron–if you know that reference, we should be friends) and a pillow made from my mom’s shirts. I also brought some rings and a special necklace, and whenever I find myself missing my family, I wear those or cuddle my chosen item. Understand that everyone feels a little homesick at some point, and you’re not alone.

Before I close this out, I’ll leave you with random suggestions. For food recommendations, try Dad’s Pies; my Kiwi flatmate recommended Dad’s Pies to me, and they have become a staple dinner for me. For movies, watch Hunt for the Wilderpeople; again, my Kiwi flatmate coming in clutch with the culture. For the experience, if you can fit it into your schedule, I would suggest going to Rotorua and going Zorbing; it was founded there, and it’s the only place in New Zealand where you can go Zorbing.

As a parting word, don’t be too hard on yourself. Your study abroad journey is just that: yours. Make it how you want it, and don’t hold back. Do those random things you want, be a little spontaneous, and get out there! This is your chance to grow, and I want you to make the most of it.

Bailey Defoor, Arizona State University, is studying abroad in New Zealand with TEAN and participating in the Choose Earth Micro-Credential.