It is my honour to attend the exchange programme at University of Canterbury (UC), New Zealand. I have learnt a lot here, not only academic knowledge but also value of life and study.
Independent Study
At the beginning of this semester, it was not easy for me to adapt to the study style at UC. I need to overcome the language barrier, and adapt to the teaching style of different professors. At UC, it is convenient for us to use ECHO system from which we can watch the lecture videos and have the assessment online. Meanwhile, if we need professor’s assistant, we can send email directly and receive the feedback immediately. As the result of this, we can learn more independently, which cost a period of time for me to adapt to because I have been used to study with my classmates face to face altogether at my home university. Also, the concept of “study on weekdays and play on weekend” is new for me. Thanks for this concept, I enjoyed myself on weekendsJ
Ample Activities
Every weekend is the best time to relax and escape from studying or working. I spent most of time with my friends on weekends. Sometimes I attended some kiwi family parties; sometimes I went tramping with my friends; and sometimes I went to some special festivals at Christchurch, such as Maori Festival and Festival of Lights. It is quite interesting for me to attend the local activities. I am always curious about local events because it is the best way for me to learn and know local life and local community. Enjoying life is the most important value for kiwi people, so they are not willing to work overtime for extra money. They prefer to spend the time with family and enjoy the nature.
Varied Culture
There are many different ethnic groups in New Zealand, such as European, Chinese, Indian and Maori. However, no matter how many kinds of culture are in New Zealand, they respect each other and develop very well. The most significant culture in New Zealand is Maori culture. Maori people are the local people in this island which was occupied by European in 18th century. For respecting their history, New Zealand government implements a large number of policies to protect Maori culture. For example, there are many different courses about Maori culture at primary school or high school in New Zealand. Every kiwi person need to grasp basic knowledge about Maori. I have had a Maori culture course at UC and have learnt a lot from the lectures, videos and readings. I have known the origin of Maori, the myth of Maori and the traditional value of Maori.
Summary
Studying at University of Canterbury, is an enjoyable, beautiful and valuable memory for me. I really appreciate everyone and everything I met at this university. I have acquired different knowledge from different people and different fields. It is glad to make a lot of friends here and build a new value of life and study. Meanwhile, I want to thank many people at Shantou University. Without their help, I cannot have a so beautiful memory here. After going back to Shantou University, I will share my experience with my friends and let more people know what the exchange programme really is.
