Otago students can choose from universities in 35 countries across the Americas, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region as part of the Otago Global Student Exchange.
Every year about 250 students head overseas as part of the Otago Global Student Exchange Programme. Laura Hewson talks with exchange adviser Louisa Samson about everything you need to know before packing your bags.
Exploring the world, meeting new people, experiencing other cultures – there are almost as many reasons why Otago students choose to go on exchange as there are places to choose from.
Otago has 100-plus agreements with overseas universities in 35 countries, which means there’s a place for everyone, Exchange Advisor for Australia, the Americas, UK and Ireland Louisa Samson says.
“The most popular places change each semester, but some are constant like Edinburgh, Copenhagen, Amsterdam and Melbourne. And then Hawaii, for example, only offers one place per semester. So, we really encourage students to think outside the box – we have new partners in Mexico, the UK, and Thailand, and the National University of Singapore is ranked number eight in the world.
“People usually get their first or second choice and sometimes their second choice works out even better.”
“It isn’t just the experiences they have on the exchange and all the friends they make, it’s also what comes after like career opportunities and travel. It really opens doors.” – Louisa Samson
Of course, there are requirements. Students need to have completed a full semester at Otago and have received at least a B average before being eligible for the programme, with some selected universities and courses requiring higher grades for admission. Students also need to be enrolled fulltime at Otago while on exchange and must plan to have a full course load at the host institution.
While this makes it unlikely that first years will go on exchange, students should start the planning process as early as possible, Louisa says.
“We recommend students considering the programme see a course adviser early on and design their qualification around the exchange. For example, they can keep the fun elective papers for the exchange and get all the core papers out of the way first.
“They can also decide if they want to go for one semester or two and even if they’d like to go alone or with a friend.”
Exchange advisers can help students decide where to go but students should definitely research the institutions first, Louisa says.
“If your course has been planned properly you should finish in the same amount of time. The credits you gain overseas are part of your degree, not extra.”
Students in the programme pay domestic fees to Otago and are still eligible for Studylink. They do need to cover living and travel costs and insurance but there are a range of scholarships available to help. Information about living costs, which range from country to country, and the different scholarships available can be found on the exchange website.
There is no age limit for the programme and many of Otago’s exchange partners offer support for students with disabilities.
“Similar to Otago, there are options for students with disabilities. We can’t guarantee they will receive exactly the same support as they do here, but people should definitely come and have a chat with us about it. Some partners have incredible support services.”
Going on an exchange is a transformational experience, Louisa says.
“It isn’t just the experiences they have on the exchange and all the friends they make, it’s also what comes after like career opportunities and travel. It really opens doors.”
*Louisa and her colleague Anna Hoek-Sims, Exchange Adviser for Asia-Pacific, Europe and Scandinavia, are currently looking at applications for semester one of 2025. They are available to chat with students at the AskOtago Hub (Central Library) every Monday to Thursday from 11am to 1pm, or via zoom appointments on MyCareer Hub. Students can apply for the programme through eVision.
Brad Davis, pictured on the far right with friends at a University of Texas Longhorns game, chose to go on exchange to Texas to get the real American college experience.
Texas exchange makes American dream a reality
Keen for a true “American” college experience, Brad Davis spent a semester at the University of Texas in Austin during the fifth and final year of his BCom/LLB in 2016. His time there opened his eyes to the benefits of learning and living in a different culture and he’s currently doing his LL.M (Master of Laws) at Northwestern University in Chicago.
Why Austin?
The University of Texas is a Nationally top-rated academic school. It also has one of the biggest college athletics programs and is known for having one of the best 'college atmospheres' in the United States.
What was the university like?
The campus was full of life during all hours of the day. The university's recreational facilities (gyms, pools, indoor basketball and tennis courts, theatres etc) were also above and beyond in terms of size and quality and were extremely accessible. I lived in a 6-person apartment with international exchange students from The Netherlands, Australia, Sweden and another friend from the University of Otago. We quickly became a very close family, had the most amazing time and still remain very good friends today.
What were the highlights?
Meeting Matthew McConaughey in a lecture; attending Texas Longhorns games with over one-hundred thousand fans; learning to line dance and two-step; attending classic 'Greek life' parties and formals; visiting a friend's ranch in West Texas; a fraternity Ski Trip to Telluride (Colorado); travelling to Yosemite National Park, Grand Canyon and Death Valley; running and hiking around Zilker Park and other greenspaces in Austin; eating Texas BBQ and "tex-mex" food and being taught by amazing guest lecturers, such as the President of the Dallas Stars and ex-Barcelona general manager.
What are you doing now?
After my exchange I took a graduate job at law firm Chapman Tripp before joining the Soho Group (a leading Social and Affordable Housing Developer) in 2021 as their National Development Manager and General Counsel. I then got a scholarship to attend Northwestern University (Chicago) where I am currently doing an LL.M. After that I will be returning to my role at Soho Group in Auckland and am motivated to stay connected with partners in the USA whether it be in property development, education or sports.
What would you say to anyone thinking of doing an exchange?
Don't let the 'admin' stand in the way. It's not that bad and it’s worth it. This was truly a life-changing opportunity that made me appreciate the best parts of New Zealand and our education system but also opened my eyes to the diversity of people, experiences, cultures and opportunities that exist across the world.
Top tips?
Wear merchandise – it’s the introvert's way into a conversation – and talk to people about any paraphernalia they’re wearing.
Time flies, so make sure you say yes to every exciting opportunity that comes your way.
Take some small but meaningful gifts. A small token of appreciation, unique to New Zealand, can go a long way.
Talking the talk and walking the walk in Chile
Completing the W-trek at Torres Del Paine National Park in Patagonia was a highlight for Otago student Caleb Lopez-Sanchez during his exchange to Chile last year.
The chance to become fluent in Spanish was too good to resist for Otago student Caleb Lopez-Sanchez, who spent a semester at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (UC Chile) in Santiago, Chile, last year. Caleb, who was in the third year of a Bachelor of Arts and Science, was helped on his journey with a Prime-Minister’s Scholarship valued at over $8000, which went towards living expenses, flights, insurance and visa costs.
Why Chile?
My whānau speaks Spanish but I hadn't been in a completely immersive educational environment before. Chile is also quite famous for having a unique version of Spanish, so I thought this would be a great opportunity to learn how to "speak" Chilean! Another reason is the diversity in the landscape. Chile is home to the world’s driest desert, endless coastline, the Cordillera de los Andes Mountains (including the Torres del Paine in Patagonia), and so much more. I hoped I would be able to visit all of these places. And I did!
What was UC Chile like?
UC Chile is considered one of the best universities in Latin America, which was reflected in the strong, but very supportive, academic environment. I was able to study the indigenous cultures in Chile and Latin America, while also joining a research lab where we were undertaking novel research into the neurobiology of obesity.
UC Chile has three campuses across Santiago and it was a new experience to have to travel between campuses on the metro. Many students travel up to two hours to their classes, while we often take it for granted that we can live next to campus at Otago
What were the highlights of your exchange?
Meeting people from Chile and all over the world; attending events organised by the New Zealand Embassy in Chile; taking part in extra-curricular activities like beach volleyball and salsa dancing; completing the W-trek at Torres Del Paine National Park in Patagonia; and celebrating 'Fiestas Patrias', which marks the beginning of the independence process for Chile.
What would you say to anyone thinking of doing an exchange?
Do it! There are so many different countries you can go to and there are also scholarships available. I’ve gained so much more confidence in navigating new environments/situations and now consider myself fluent in Spanish.
Any top tips?
Take the leap and step out of your comfort zone!
Have an open mind, be willing to experience new things, and be prepared for your plan to change!
For more information about Prime minister Scholarships go to https://scholarships.enz.govt.nz/options/
From Ontario to Otago – Canadian enjoying Kiwi life
Canadian exchange student Kimber Stokes enjoys a sunrise at the top of Roys Peak, near Wanaka.
Canadian exchange student Kimber Stokes was drawn to Otago because of its reputation, the student lifestyle and the chance to see as much of Aotearoa as possible. So far she’s loved everything she’s seen. Well, almost everything …
Where are you from and what are you studying?
My home University is Western University in Canada and I’m currently wrapping up my fourth year, studying business administration.
What are you taking during your semester at Otago?
I’m taking sales and branding courses, which fall under my degree, as well as sports tourism. I’m also taking MAOR102 Māori Society, which is such an interesting course and definitely my most challenging one here because I have no pre-existing knowledge of Māori Society. I’ve loved it so far and think a Māori class is a must for incoming exchange students. It’s a great way to feel connected and to better understand and appreciate Māori society and culture.
What else are you doing at Otago?
I’ve joined the tramping club and the canoeing club for the semester I'm here. I have a bunch of friends who are also part of those clubs, and we all love to try and get onto trips together. It’s such a fun and unique way to see New Zealand. In terms of travelling, I’ve been trying to see as much as possible. I love hiking so when I plan trips, I always try to make sure I have at least one big walk. New Zealand has so many awesome outdoor adventures - I want to try it all.
Have you experienced any culture shocks here?
The strangest thing is seeing people walk around outside and in stores with no shoes or socks on! That doesn’t happen at home. I called my grandma about people going barefoot and she thought it was completely insane. I will say, I’ve now tried it out and totally understand why people do it.
Why should Otago students go on exchange to your university?
Western University offers students an amazing student life and plenty of opportunity to see some incredible spots in Canada. Western has a very active student life and does a fantastic job of welcoming exchange students.
Top tips?
Meet cool people, do cool things.
Be ready to push yourself outside of your comfort zone. Try to say yes to as many different experiences as possible – you might surprise yourself!
Don't compare your experiences to others. I think it’s easy to get FOMO seeing what your friends and peers are up to.