One semester exchange from Amsterdam

While I had a difficulties with my home university figuring out what I needed to arrange for my exchange, I was filled with relief when I received my first email from the University of Auckland. Everything was so clearly explained, step-by-step, reminders for deadlines, etc., their services for international students are great! I also really loved the attention they paid to student mental health throughout the semester. My master courses were very interesting and challenging, with small classes and approachable teachers. There are unique courses like pacific health that you can't do anywhere else in the world! I stayed at one of the University halls, which was nice because almost everyone else was also an international student & there are often activities, but it was very expensive. I would also recommend signing up for some student organisations like the climbing club and study abroad society. It is nice that the city campus is very close to the city centre and there are a lots of places with great (international) food. There are many places nearby that you can visit, we tried to get out of Auckland almost every weekend (and the south island is even more amazing <3<3). The weather in summer is great (and in winter pretty good as well in my opinion) and the nature in New Zealand is crazy beautiful. I did lots of hiking with international friends. New Zealand is a country I normally wouldn't travel to because it's so far away, so combining it with my studies was the perfect experience!