The beginning of school at Otago University has been very different than what I’m used to. To begin, I am taking three classes out of my major (anthropology, history, Maori studies) and a one food marketing class. These topics and all the reading that involves them are interesting. These classes have been expanding on topics I knew very little about if at all. Furthermore, I’ve been busy getting adjusted to this University’s system. There are lectures, which are in the typical big school lecture halls, and then there are tutorial, which are more Rollins College structured. The tutors are the graders and there are only 3-4 grades including the final. Tutorials have less than 20 students and are taught by the tutor of the lecture. All of my tutorial take attendance while in lecture classes they do not. The information in the lectures is recorded and uploaded to Blackboard as well as the readings and PowerPoints so staying on top of classes is very easy. What I was not aware of was that all lectures have tutorials, which basically means I now have 8 classes instead of 4.
Other than classes, I have been getting used to the day by day life as a Kiwi. Since I don’t have a car, getting around takes time and even though this town facilitates walkers. Going to the grocery is a big event. It takes me 20min there and back and I have to consider how much I can carry at once. My backpack plays many roles in this experience. The food here has less sugar than at home and the produce is more fresh. My body feels healthy and walking is enjoyable (when it’s above 45F of course). I have also started to make my own coffee from home because coffee at Uni is $4.20 for 8oz. Budgeting, cooking, and taking care of my wellness.. New Zealand is helping me “adult”.
My social life has also been very helpful for me. My friends and I get together weekly by cooking, camping, playing cards, and walking in town. We are all very low maintenance and easy going so being together is refreshing and comforting. Additionally, my flat mates are encouraging and supportive. We try to take a few trips around and spend time together during meals. One of my Kiwi hosts has included us in her friend group and that has also given me the experience to meet more local Kiwis. So far, New Zealand has impressed me and I am glad I can find a home in this country for the next four months.