Student Comments

From: Maribeth Plocha
"Aotearoa (New Zealand) is a place fill of wonder, beauty, and mystery. I was continually amazed at every turn of the journey. I would never have guessed I could have learned so much in three weeks, not only about the environmental policy, but the Maori people, travel, and myself. I have been inspired by the long white cloud. It was an experience that will forever dwell close to my heart."

From: Mike Murray
"The New Zealand Environmental Study Abroad opened my eyes to the world of environmental policy and science not only in New Zealand but also in the United States. By examining the environment and its management in New Zealand it made me reflect on out own country and how we go about treating the environment both at the personal and federal level. We were able to visit different ecosystems, view the natural beauty of New Zealand, and meet with influential people at New Zealand Universities and government agencies. It was an experience that will remain with me forever."

From: Lisa Schindler
"Studying environmental science and policy in New Zealand was the best experience of my life. Being able to learn about rangelands and wetlands while standing in the middle of one makes the experience so much more personal. The entire trip was a real eye opener to how many wonderful places there are in the world that I have not yet had the chance to experience. I would recommend this program to everybody who has an appreciation for nature."

From: Jessica Micklash
"Studying abroad in New Zealand was the experience of a lifetime. Not only did it make me stretch my boundaries intellectually, but emotionally too. I learned more on this trip about myself and life than I would have just spending my Christmas break at home. If you are given the opportunity to study overseas, do not pass it up!"

From: Emily Kujawa
Human Biology Major
Class of 2006 (Junior)
"I had an absolutely amazing time in New Zealand. The natural beauty was stunning; it seemed that every corner we went around brought something new to take my breath away! I enjoyed nearly every aspect of the trip; from the day hikes to the sea kayaking to simply chatting with locals or going grocery shopping and trying new foods. My favorite parts of the trip were probably our day sea kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, our day at Mt.Cook, the couple days we spent in Auckland (it is a charming city), and especially hang-gliding in Queenstown! New Zealand is a wonderful country, and this trip has piqued my desire to travel there again."

From: Lindsey Bock
Fisheries and Wildlife Major
Class of 2007 (Senior)
"... it was the greatest experience I've ever had. NZ was gorgeous, the people were cool, the cities were fun, the culture amazing. ... I see the difference in management as it applies to my field, with NZ being more into preservation than conservation ... There is a lot a could write ... but I just want to say that this trip changed my life"

From: Kim Berry
Fisheries and Wildlife Major
Class of 2007 (Senior)
" ... This trip has been an awesome experience. Definitely the opportunity of a lifetime, and I am glad I did not let it pass me by.."