How is it to be a mature International Student in New Zealand?
In 2017, at the age of 43, I arrived in Hamilton, NZ, with the goal of pursuing a doctoral degree in Law at the University of Waikato. This decision came after accumulating 25 years of professional history in Brazil and abroad. Throughout this journey, I have been fortunate to receive unwavering support from my wife and three boys, making it a delightful and highly rewarding academic expedition. The words shared here serve as a testament to my personal journey and practical expertise.
In this article, we will explore the advantages, drawbacks, challenges, and benefits that mature students encounter during their educational pursuits in New Zealand.
Advantages:
- Quality education: New Zealand is renowned for its excellent education system. As an adult student, you have access to world-class universities and vocational institutes that offer diverse academic programs catering to various fields of interest.
- Cultural immersion: New Zealand embraces a multicultural society, providing an ideal environment for international students. Being more experienced, you can engage with people from diverse backgrounds, fostering cultural understanding and broadening your global perspectives.
- Safety and security: New Zealand consistently ranks among the safest countries globally. This sense of security allows foreign students to focus on their studies and personal development without concerns about their well-being.
- Work opportunities: New Zealand offers favourable work conditions for international students. While studying, you can explore part-time employment options to support your financial needs while gaining valuable skills at a new job.
- For your children and spouse: education and healthcare can be free (aside from some donations and activities) for your children and spouse, depending on your visa type.
Disadvantages and Challenges:
- Financial considerations: One of the primary challenges for any student is the financial aspect. Tuition fees, living expenses and healthcare costs can be substantial, necessitating careful financial planning and budgeting, particularly if you are bringing your family along.
- Homesickness: Being away from family and familiar surroundings can lead to moments of homesickness, which may be more pronounced for older students with ageing parents. Coping with homesickness requires resilience, building new support networks, and staying connected with loved ones.
- Language barrier: While English is the predominant language in New Zealand, non-native English speakers may encounter certain language barriers. However, universities often provide English language support programs to help students improve their language skills.
Benefits and Personal Growth:
- Independence and self-discovery: As an adult student, you have already built independence and self-reliance. Therefore, you have the opportunity to navigate your daily life in a foreign country more easily, develop quick problem-solving skills, and rediscover your strengths and abilities.
- Professional development: New Zealand’s education system emphasises practical learning and industry integration, providing excellent prospects for professional growth. With your prior background, you can explore a wider angle and insights, and better network with professionals in your respective field. Additionally, your accumulated work experience remains highly valuable to employers.
- Cultural adaptability: Living in a different country challenges your cultural adaptability and flexibility. Embracing diverse perspectives and understanding cultural nuances enhances your intercultural communication skills, making you a more adaptable and globally aware individual.
- Long-term career prospects: Even for mature students, studying overseas can still enhance your employability both locally and internationally. The country’s strong reputation for quality education and its close ties with global industries create opportunities for career advancement and the exchange of projects.
In essence, being an older student in New Zealand presents an incredible opportunity for personal, professional and academic growth. Despite challenges like financial considerations, the advantages and benefits outweigh the difficulties. Going back to school as an adult continues to offer opportunities to learn, and enrich cultural immersion, in a safe environment, paving the way for professional development and promising career prospects.
As you embrace this new world, remember that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow, making this unique path even more rewarding.
Dr Mauricio Kimura, Ph.D, LL.M, MBA, LL.B
CEO – Principal Legal Advisor
Words by Dr Mauricio Kimura
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