Introvert era: over

Ryan Fried from Texas Tech University shares how a semester at AUT helped him build friendships, gain confidence and explore life on the other side of the planet.

Ryan Fried

Why I chose to come to AUT in New Zealand:

I primarily chose AUT because it’s in Auckland, where you can also find the Mangere Wastewater Treatment Plant. For environmental engineering, having the opportunity to job shadow at this plant was incredible and I learned so much more than I would have staying at home. Beyond that, AUT looked more welcoming than other universities, and I liked the smaller class size and overall population. AUT is also situated steps away from the CBD and the public transit hub, making it very easy to step out of class and go on adventures around New Zealand.

What I enjoyed most about spending a semester in New Zealand:

Having an entire semester, instead of a summer or maymester, allowed me to explore and experience so much more. I had time to build deep friendships, go on random trips all around New Zealand and get a true feel for life on the other side of the planet. I enjoyed being in classes filled primarily with New Zealand natives and get a taste of what regular life was like.

How I found learning in a different academic system:

What surprised me most was the complete lack of homework and assignments. My classes all had only one or two grades, a midterm and a final, and that made up your entire course grade. I had to entirely change my study habits to force myself to study of my own volition and get ready for these big, high-stakes exams. I enjoyed that classes were longer and less frequent throughout the week. This gave me not only more time in class to focus on one topic, but also more time outside of class to explore.

What I gained from my time in Auckland:

Spending 6 months in Auckland was eye opening. Almost everything was in stark contrast, from the physical location being on the other side of the globe to driving on the left side of the road.

I gained professional job experience closely related to my field of study while also completing my coursework and exploring all NZ had to offer.

Before studying abroad, I was mostly introverted, but this completely changed after returning. Being in a foreign country by yourself forces you to build new relationships, and through this I realised that building these relationships and meeting new people wasn’t scary at all.