Studying abroad offers opportunities
Wellington East year 12 student Keyu Chen is loving the opportunity to immerse herself in a new culture
About Keyu
Name: Keyu Chen
Age: 17
School/institution: Wellington East Girls’ College
Home city/country: China
Year 12 Chinese international student Keyu Chen is relishing the opportunities studying abroad are giving her while she studies at Wellington East Girls’ College.
Keyu tells her story
I came to Wellington at the beginning of 2020. When I first arrived, the city made me feel peaceful and arty. There’s no doubt that Wellington is known as the coolest capital in the southern hemisphere.
After I experienced the lifestyle here, it showed me more of its amazing cultural diversity. For my experience at high school, it felt quite different to home - there are fewer students in class so I get more personalised attention from my teachers.
When I have difficulty with an exam, I always discuss it with my teacher or get help from peer tutors. We’re encouraged to question teachers and seek our own answers by thinking for ourselves.
My mentor, also Chinese, is from Victoria University of Wellington and she has helped me answer questions about how university works. I have really benefited from the Pathway Connect Programme
We also get many chances to take part in many activities. For example, I joined the Wellington International Student Association (WISA) this year and I enjoy working with other international students from around the Wellington region.
Taking part in WISA helps me to meet more people and learn more about leadership and specific strategies. I participated in the Pathway Connect Programme as well.
My mentor, also Chinese, is from Victoria University of Wellington and she has helped me answer questions about how university works. I have really benefited from the Pathway Connect Programme.
If you plan to study in Wellington, I would strongly recommend you use English in daily life as often as possible. Don’t be afraid to talk to people, as language needs practice and practice make perfect.
By studying abroad for a year-and-a-half so far, I’ve got the opportunity to see the world and experience different cultures. Studying abroad also grants us the opportunity to completely immerse ourselves in a new language, and there is no better way to learn than to dive right in.