So it is less than two weeks until I arrive in Auckland, New Zealand for the next chapter of my life. Exciting! I can’t wait to make New Zealand my home for over four months, where I expect to meet some very cool people and friends. There are many new experiences and adventures that a-wait. I also plan to learn about myself as well as New Zealand culture and maybe will pick up the wicked New Zealand accent.

I anticipate a friendly and welcoming environment. I wonder what the University of Auckland will be like. Will there be really large classes when I am used to small ones? Also what will it be like on a much bigger campus? I also wonder what the shared housing will be like. I expect to make some good friends out of my roommates.  It will also be cool to see what Kiwis think of North Americans, and get another perspective on differences and similarities in lifestyles.

I am most excited about going to a warm climate, where it will be the end of summer. I am also looking forward to beautiful scenery and to be close to the ocean. I have also never been to the Southern Hemisphere and will get to see new stars! 

Before my departure I am most nervous about the long flight ahead of me, travelling from my hometown Edmonton, Canada all the way to Auckland with two transfers. Being far away from home always takes some getting used to. There are also the little worries of different voltage for any electronics as well as communicating across time zones to reach home. These are all minor, though, compared to the excitement for new challenges and opportunities.