Weekly Blog #1

      Hi! My name is Tara Josberger, and this is my Travel Blog for my time spent abroad in Auckland, New Zealand. I am originally from a very small town in upstate New York, called Coxsackie. I have been studying in Auckland for about two months, and have been loving it! It has been amazing to attend a new university in such a different setting, and I am truly blessed to have been given this opportunity!
    I loved growing up in a small town where everyone knew everyone, however I always knew I wanted to travel a lot as I grew older. My dad worked as a cargo ship captain for many years when my sisters and I were younger, and I always remember being in awe of all the interesting gifts he brought back from various countries. I was beyond excited to plan my own study abroad experience coming into college, and was very fortunate to attend a school that offered such a variety of programs.
     I chose to study in Auckland, New Zealand for several reasons. I am a Biology major, especially interested in environmental science as well as marine biology. The University of Auckland offered a lot of great Biology classes, and I felt as if this program provided the most opportunity for me to explore a part of the world I never have, as well as advance my area of study in a way many other programs could not. I have always wanted to explore this section of the world, especially other countries in Oceania such as Australia. This area has a ton of amazing and iconic places that especially interest a biology nerd such as myself, the Great Barrier Reef being one of the main examples.
    There are many interesting things I have discovered about New Zealand since arriving in early July. As student interested in environmental science, it is easy to notice great differences in conservation ideas and actions here in New Zealand compared to common practices in the United States. The people of New Zealand, more commonly known as kiwis, are much more conscience of waste and recycling, as well as water conservation. Kitchen appliances are much more efficient, as are many cars. Almost all places to eat or drink use reusable silverware and dishes, and there is almost no plastic given out anywhere. Even at the supermarkets, plastic bags are not an option at all. They have many effective and inexpensive forms of public transport that are also much more environmentally friendly. I think America can adopt many of these ideas, and small changes such as these really do add up and make a difference.
     The geography of New Zealand is also one of the things that drew me to study abroad here. There are beautiful beaches where you can find people surfing, but there are also tall mountains where you can find skiers gliding down snowy mountains. We have been lucky to go on gorgeous hikes to hidden waterfalls and explore beautiful coastlines, all in driving distance of our university. Outdoor activities such as hiking have always been my favorite kind to partake in, and New Zealand has more than enough beautiful places to explore. We have more weekend trips lined up, and I cannot wait to explore more areas of the north island as well as the south island during my time here.
    It has also been very interesting to learn about the native population and culture of New Zealand, known as Maori culture. I have been lucky to attend several presentations learning of their culture, as well as traditional ceremonies and significant places. Their beliefs are very influential in all areas of New Zealand culture; from architecture, to political influence, to spirituality and religious beliefs. European influence only began in New Zealand around the late 17th century, and it is interesting to observe the blend of the two cultures in their modern day society.
     A lot of people from New Zealand are eager to discuss America, especially politically. I have talked to many students who often ask me of my opinion of my home country, and voiced their own.  A lot of American culture is very interesting to them, and many American influences are obvious in varying forms. A lot of music played here is American, as well as many clothing brands are similar to ones we have at home.  Many people have asked me why I chose to study abroad, especially in New Zealand. It is almost as if they do not understand why I would want to leave my country and explore such a small one.
      The schooling system here is also of great interest to me, both at the college level as well as at the primary and secondary levels. They have a much different grading system here, as final exams are much more heavily weighted, and there are only about two or three other grades throughout the semester. One of my professor here mentioned he read a lot about the "coddling" of American students. This intrigued me, as I have felt that there was much more guidance at Loyola compared to University of Auckland. I have gotten used to this "guidance" and was at first very nervous to be graded in a different way. However, I think it is valuable to learn how to manage one's time in a different way, as well as learn to be a bit more independent.
       Overall, the past two months here have been amazing. It is going by so quickly, and I cannot believe I only have about three more. Not only have I been able to learn about and experience a new country and culture, I have learned a lot about myself. I am so lucky to be able to see this part of the world, especially with the people I care about. I can't wait to see what the next three months hold!