Margot Poirier from France

I’d like to share with you my experience as an exchange student in Auckland. I’m fifteen and going to New Zealand was a dream for me. I arrived at the beginning of term two with another French girl. These past 3 months have been amazing since my first day.

I was in a very nice homestay where I stayed with two host sisters (Brazilian and Italian). We liked to walk every morning to school together by the beach. After school I was going to the gym or hanging out with my friends. I made friends from every part of the world.

I chose Macleans College because I heard lots of good things about it but also for the wonderful view all around the campus (that you never tire of). Macleans is a big school full of energy with nice and clever people. This school offers lots of options for learning, with a long list of subjects for all different profiles. But also, for teenagers who like sports, with extracurricular activities.

I was in Year 11 in Snell House and I chose to study Maths, English, a mix of Sciences, Art (photoshop), Commerce and Outdoor Education in Year 12 (I would recommend this subject to all new international students). The fact that we can choose our subjects makes the classes go so fast because you learn about topics you are interested in. Another wonderful experience at this school is the supportive relationship between the students and the teachers, it is not only about teaching.

This experience taught me a lot about the diverse cultures from around the world by meeting people from different backgrounds. I really enjoyed my stay here and the three months passed very quickly. People are very nice and I discovered a new culture, a new type of life and amazing landscapes.

This experience made me realize lots of things. It has also helped me discover who I was. I met amazing people that I will never forget, I really hope to meet them again even if I have to travel all around the world. I also did some trips around Auckland and with Kiwiana Tours, to Kiwi House and Waitomo Caves. I went to Hobbiton to see the setting of the famous movie “The Lord of The Rings” and I enjoyed the banquet.

A big thank you to Macleans College but especially to all the international department that welcomed me the best way they could but also to everything they did for all the exchange students. I am thankful for my parents for letting me do this amazing experience that made me learn more about myself but also to gain maturity and autonomy.