Kia Ora! My name is Gurjeev, and I have just completed my semester abroad at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand. Christchurch is the second biggest city in New Zealand and is found in the South Island. The city is rebuilding itself after the 2010 earthquakes, which have allowed it to create new, vibrant spaces like the botanical gardens and riverside market. During my time there, I lived in a 5-bedroom house, located on the University Campus. It was quite the experience living with a Dutchman, a German, a Swiss and an Austrian; it felt like a makeshift European Union. Sharing stories, food, and perspectives from across Europe added a whole other layer to my study abroad journey.
The course itself was both intense and enriching. I deepened my understanding of material science, particularly how polymers behave and are applied in engineering contexts. One of the early hands-on projects involved constructing a bridge model designed to hold a predetermined load, testing our understanding of structural mechanics and our ability to work under pressure and iterate designs. Later in the semester, we worked in groups to design a clutch system intended for use in a mining application. This project combined mechanical design, teamwork, and real-world engineering problem-solving. The practical, industry-relevant focus of the course made the learning experience all the more rewarding.
New Zealand has a little bit of everything for everyone. There are numerous places to hike, go on a road trip, or engage in more adventurous activities. After the semester, I explored everything from the rugged coastline of Kaikōura to the serene lakes of Queenstown and the alpine charm of Mount Cook. It’s a landscape that makes you feel both small and incredibly alive at the same time. My key memories in this landscape were when I went skydiving at Mount Cook at 16,500 ft. There was a mix of adrenaline and serenity as I fell for an eternity. Seeing the sun set over the biggest mountain in New Zealand was an experience that reminded me how beautiful a country it is. Another high point of my journey was cave diving in the mystical glow of the Waitomo Caves, ziplining in the dark while surrounded by glowworms like stars. Lastly, climbing Roy’s Peak and hiking for 6 hours to get one of the most jaw-dropping, panoramic views of Lake Wanaka.
During the term break, I took a flight to Fiji. I spent 10 days solo travelling across the islands, which was a completely new experience culturally. My time here consisted of me island hopping to different areas of Fiji. Starting off in Nadi, I took the boat to the Yasawa islands. I was able to scuba dive with bull sharks and watch a group of sharks in a live feeding session. In the latter half of my adventures here, I lived at a Fijian village where I gained a deeper understanding of their way of life. My time here consisted of me slouching on the hammocks under the tropical sun and helping construct the huts they needed. In the evening, missionaries from the main island had come for the first time in three years- a point where the entire village was brought together through song and prayer.
Overall, my semester abroad journey had its ups and downs, but every challenge came with growth, and every highlight left a lasting impression. I made connections with people that will last a lifetime and was exposed to many different cultures across New Zealand and Fiji. I returned not only with unforgettable memories, but with a renewed sense of purpose, confidence, and global awareness that I’ll carry with me long after university.
