The adventure starts here

For Shemaiah Perry from Brandeis University, studying at AUT in Auckland meant new friends, new places and a whole new perspective.

Shemaiah Perry

Why I chose to come to AUT in New Zealand:

My university has a list of good Study Abroad programmes that I was supposed to choose from. I chose to come to New Zealand because it was the only place on the Study Abroad list that I thought I’d never go to outside of this opportunity. Looking back on it, I’m extremely glad that I chose AUT because now I’d love to come back.

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

I was glad that I was able to spend an entire semester in New Zealand because there is so much to do and see. So far, I’ve been to Taupō, Palmerston North, Waiheke Island, Rotorua and Fiji. I have more trips planned but it’s all because I’ve stayed here for a semester. I also enjoyed the community of people I met outside of AUT. I’ve been taken on trips and outings with my new friends, and it was the most fun I've had in a while. If I had only spent a summer here, it wouldn’t have been as life-changing for me.

How I found learning in a different academic system:

The class scheduling was different, having only one class and a workshop a week. However, the professors were very helpful and made sure I understood the subjects being taught. This schedule also came with more time to spend outside of class. I was also surprised that there weren’t many tests or homework assignments, which eased my mind and gave me more time to study.

What I gained from my time in Auckland:

I learned a lot more about myself in Auckland – things I liked and things I thought I liked. Being in Auckland opened my eyes and although I always knew there’s a whole different part of the world, I never really experienced it until I came here. Additionally, I was able to meet a new friend and model for his brand. Through this one opportunity I was able to explore more of New Zealand and meet new people. He also knows people in Melbourne and on Auckland’s football (soccer) team, and I was able to go to the games and meet them afterwards. Lastly, I have a new perspective on certain topics because of my new overseas perspectives. I don’t think I would have learned about some of these topics at my university.