Puan Aqilah
Puan travelled from Universitas Gadjah Mada in Indonesia to experience New Zealand education at The University of Auckland.
"I have always wanted to study in New Zealand because from what I knew through seeing, listening, and experiencing it myself, NZ has one of the best education systems in the world. I feel that the education here focuses on realising each student’s potential by giving them the opportunity to be creative and explore in their own ways with guidance from the teachers.
"Moreover, it is also in the top 100 universities in the world - and no wonder! During my time studying here, I felt that most of the things have been provided to support students learning and sense-of-belonging; the facilities (not only for studying, but also social and communities like prayer room and queer space), study materials, teachings, events (social, cultural, academic), and the hospitality of everyone in the campus. I also noticed that the university often takes into consideration the importance of well-being by holding events that support that.
"It’s hard for me to choose what I most enjoy as I enjoy everything! I think what I appreciate the most is the diversity, inclusivity, and focus on well-being. Everyone I met was very friendly and accepting. They are also very authentically themselves! You can see diverse cultural events (Māori, Pacific, and basically from all around the world). I also appreciate the incorporation of Māori beliefs and values in the teachings as well as in everyday occasions, like how they implement Hauora."
"The courses at the University of Auckland expanded my thought and knowledge. It challenges me to constantly be critical and try to think extra beyond as the courses I’m taking encourages to liberate the mind while also considering the materials given by the lecturers to support our ideas.