THEO TSIOLAS, University of Auckland

THEO is studying a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Auckland

 

“The first few days in Auckland were strange. There I was, in a country I was planning to live for at least three years, surrounded by people I didn’t know. But maybe that’s the same feeling I would’ve had if I’d gone to university in the UK.

“The University of Auckland is big, first and foremost. It has over 30,000 students, including a few thousand international students from a huge number of countries. Finding that out made me feel better – knowing I wasn’t the only one!
I’m halfway through my second semester now and feel right at home. Homesickness was never an issue as I was so preoccupied with work and activities, but it took three or four weeks to properly settle in. That may seem like a long time but it flies by.

“I’m studying a Bachelor of Commerce. Academic expectations here are incredibly high – Auckland is currently ranked in the top 50 universities in the world. Courses are demanding, with assignments, essays, online quizzes and exams spread throughout each semester.

“I’m enjoying my second semester, but my first was a different story. I didn’t know what to expect and quickly found myself a bit behind with the work, but my new flatmates were all keen to help me and I soon got back on track.

“The university facilities are excellent. There is a quad in the middle of the university where events are held regularly – whether it’s elections for head of the AUSA (Auckland University Students Union), or a free BBQ, it’s always lively and bustling. The student bar is called Shadows Bar, because it’s so dark inside. It serves food (and of course cheap alcohol) and live local bands play there every week.

“I live in a catered hall of residence. I’d highly recommend living in halls – it’s the best and quickest way to make friends. The accommodation is brilliant – you can choose between a normal size room and a larger room (which is usually where the parties are). At the beginning of each semester they have O Week (orientation week), which is like Freshers week in the UK. The parties and activities they put on are amazing – trips to a nearby island, themed parties or inter-floor sports.

“When I’m not studying there’s plenty to do in and around the city. There are lots of university clubs you can join for a small fee (usually $10-$20). I joined the football club, ski club and, of course, the drinking club. They have events throughout the semester. Each academic department also has their own society. There’s also the university gym, which is very cheap and the facilities are excellent – an indoor hall, which has daily basketball, football and touch rugby to join in with. There’s also a climbing wall.

“The cost of living is generally cheaper than the UK. Auckland would probably compare to a small town in the UK, price-wise. If we go out for food, a medium pizza; fries and a drink would cost $10, which is around £3.75. Drinks in a club vary depending on what sort of place it is – a student bar would serve jugs of beer which are generally larger than pints at $6 (yes £2!!) but a vodka and Red Bull would cost $15 (a fiver).

“During the holidays I travelled round the north island with some friends. New Zealand is the home of outdoor activities and me and my friends went skydiving in Taupo over the great lake and did a bungee jump off a cliff into a river, then in Rotorua we visited the thermal pools and went white water rafting. It’s no problem storing your things while you’re away – our rooms are locked and the hall’s very safe.

“My friends here are mostly New Zealanders (both Maori and Pakeha) but I’m also friends with
the other international students in my halls. Many are from Malaysia, China and the USA but there are also a few from the UK.

“As an international student I feel very comfortable here. As soon as I saw how multicultural Auckland was it eased my anxiety and New Zealanders are great people and welcome you as their own. The advice I’d give about going abroad to study is, think it out thoroughly and get proper advice. There are some amazing people at Study Options who are willing to help you in whatever way they can.”

 

Top three things about studying overseas?

Being halfway across the world in a beautiful country. Making friends from all over the globe (I’m thinking it may be an advantage in the future!). Being exposed to different points of view on everything.

Three things you most miss about home?

I miss my friends and family incredibly; and I miss being in a familiar environment. And good old proper British fish ‘n’ chips!

Anything else you think people should know?

If you’re not a good saver, then become one! You have to budget your funds because being so far away it is very difficult to get money from home. Getting a part-time job is advisable. If you do eventually decide to study overseas I promise you it will be an amazing experience!