A Reflection
Date
January 27, 2014It's been almost three months now since I left New Zealand and when I start to think about documenting my reflections of my time abroad in a more official manner, I am overwhelmed. I think I could write a book!
Needless to say, my time abroad was full of experiences, lessons, and memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I have made friends that I'm confident I will have forever, I've seen unique and astounding sights, taken pictures that I will admire fondly many years from now, and done some things that I will never get bored of talking about.
Studying abroad is not only an important opportunity for an experience in a different academic setting and country, it is an extraordinary platform for personal growth. I continued to develop my own independence - living and traveling. I grew spiritually - through experiences in nature AND in the city. Most importantly, I realized how simple happiness can be. It's little things that add up to big lessons.
There are quite a few things that come to mind when I think of what I gained from my experience in New Zealand, but one of the first that comes to mind is the blessing of the unique city of Christchurch. It is a city in transition and what an exceptional opportunity to witness that first hand, to dive into a community rebuilding. While it is a challenging time for the city and the area, it is also vibrant and colorful and full of potential. To anyone considering the University of Canterbury, I would highly recommend the course, "Rebuilding Christchurch: An Introduction to Community Engagement in Tertiary Studies." It provides a cool and interesting perspective on student volunteerism, globally and locally.
These pieces were created by student contributors. The views and opinions expressed are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Arcadia Abroad.