Kiwi - New Zealander
kiwi - endagered bird that is native to New Zealand
Kumara - a special type of sweet potato brought to New Zealand by the early Maori settlers
If you had asked me how I was feeling about my trip at this time last week, I probably would have shrugged and made little conversation. I was nervous, stressed, and, honestly, not quite looking forward to it. Now, fast forwarding 7 days, I'm feeling more prepared, organized, and excited. Granted, I'm still very anxious, but I'm more able to keep my emotions in check and focus on the adventure instead of what I'll miss at home.
I got a copy of my orientation schedule. I spend a day exploring Auckland, then head to Rotorua, a very Maori-influenced area. There, I will learn about their culture, eat their food, and be truly welcomed to New Zealand. One of the reasons I chose to study in New Zealand specifically was because of the Maori culture and I am really looking forward to experiencing it firsthand.
