Imagine never trying a pie or hockey pockey chocolate. Some Germans are really missing out, I am so glad I came to New Zealand. I’m Constanze, I'm from Germany and I'm going to share my experience as an exchange student in New Zealand.
Only after arriving in New Zealand did I realise what I actually committed to. The prospect of spending a year in a different and very isolated country on the other side of the world was very very daunting. After arriving at Macleans College I discovered how different the school was. Having only five subjects (instead of my normal 12), the whole school assemblies, form time in the mornings, the uniform and the house system is very different compared to Germany. I adapted pretty fast and embraced the new school life. I joined the football team, met some amazing players and had so much fun during the games and training.
Both orienteering and adventure racing were new sports for me and I really enjoyed them. Crazy how running around and looking for points on a map can actually be so much fun. I still can’t get over the fact how many extra curriculars Macleans College has to offer and how much you can do at school because in Germany we don't do any extra-curriculars at school. I managed to see some of the beautiful places in New Zealand, my highlight was the Outdoor Education ski trip to Queenstown. After missing out on my normal white Christmas, seeing the snow and the mountains was exhilarating.
During my exchange year I learnt to treasure my time and to make the most of it. I just want you to imagine your life as a book. Everything you do and every memory you make is a chapter. Do you want your book to be empty? If the answer is no, grab every possible opportunity because the memories you make shape you and make you the person you are. So, live a life that you’ll remember. Years later, you’ll think, 'those were good times.' As my exchange year comes to an end I just want to thank everyone who made this year so special. Thank you to all those people and friends who welcomed me into their lives.
