Tell us about yourself.
Hi! I’m Hannah, I’m 18 and I’m from South Korea. I studied the Foundation course at University of Auckland International College here in New Zealand and finished in December. Before I came over, I attended a Foreign Language High School in Korea, so I was already used to conversing in English every day.
Why did you want to study overseas in New Zealand at UOAIC?
New Zealand is famous for its incredible natural beauty and clean air, that was the first thing that drew me. I heard about University of Auckland International College from a study abroad agent in Korea, and they pitched it as the ideal spot for international students to get ready for university life. Auckland is also a brilliant city for hanging out. There’s always something to do, especially around the harbour where you can grab a bite with friends.
Can you share with us your study experience? What are the most fun part and what are the challenges?
I scored 6.0 on IELTS, but I hadn’t completed enough academic subjects in high school to go straight into the standard Foundation course. So I started with the Foundation Connect course in July 2023, which was designed to bridge that gap in my academic preparation. It was a bit easier and it helped me adjust to the academic demands here. From there I moved into the regular Foundation course.
The biggest difference for me is how the teaching works. Back home it’s more about rote learning, but here it’s about applying what we learn through activities. It’s less about stuffing knowledge into your head and more about actually doing something with what you learn. It’s a lot more effective and it prepares you much better for higher education.
The challenge was accounting. Because I came from a foreign language high school, the English side wasn’t too hard for me, but accounting was full of new things like graphs that I had never seen before. The teachers here are very supportive though, they go out of their way to make sure we grasp everything. I also formed a study group with my classmates and we would meet up and help each other out. It was tough at first, but I passed my exams.
Why did you choose your current bachelor degree? And what inspired you to be in the field that you are currently in now?
I’m studying law and accounting at the University of Auckland. I’m fascinated by how laws impact society, and studying law at such a reputable university will set me up nicely for my plans of living overseas. The Foundation pathway was crucial in getting me ready for it.
Do you live in a homestay/accommodation organised by the university?
I’m staying with a Korean homestay family, which is lovely because I get to have Korean food and it feels a bit like home. It makes the whole experience a lot easier, having a piece of home away from home.
My parents were very worried at first about me being all by myself overseas. What I did was make sure to video call them every day to show them how I’m doing, and I told them all about how friendly and kind both my schoolmates and my homestay family are to me. It puts their minds at ease, knowing I’m safe and happy here.
What are the challenges of studying as an international student?
At the start it was tough being the only Korean in the Foundation programme. I felt quite lonely. But after a bit I made friends from all over, Vietnam, Russia, China. Everyone is really friendly and eager to practise English, which makes it a lot easier to connect. And of course my friends absolutely love Korean food, so we often go out to Korean restaurants together.
What is the most exciting thing you have done in New Zealand/Auckland?
Honestly, the simple things. Auckland is a brilliant city for hanging out, and my favourite thing is going down to the harbour with friends to grab a bite. Taking my friends to Korean restaurants is a close second.
What is the next steps for you, career-wise and in education?
I’m starting at the University of Auckland to study law and accounting, and I’m all set for university life. Longer term I’d like to live and work overseas, and a law degree from a university with this reputation gives me a strong start.
If you have any advice for other students who also want to get an overseas education experience, what would it be?
Definitely go for it. This is a safe and supportive place to study. The education system here is fantastic, with teachers who genuinely care about your success. It’s also a great way to improve your English and prepare yourself for the global stage. So don’t hesitate, come join us.
