While in New Zealand, I plan to advance my studies in the field of physics. I chose this New Zealand program because it offers physics courses that best match the topics covered in those offered at Santa Clara; other programs only have introductory level physics courses. The two physics courses I will take are at the appropriate level for the understanding of physics I will have when I begin the Fall semester abroad, and will prepare me for the courses I take at SCU when I get back.
I chose Maori Society and Anthropology of Religion and the Supernatural as my other two courses in order to learn about New Zealand’s culture, which is unfamiliar to me. The basic cultural concepts and history that these courses offer will foster my involvement in the New Zealand culture.
While at New Zealand, I would like to give back to the community, and Arcadia’s Co-curricular Learning Certificate (CLC) will motivate me to do so. Two activities I want to pursue and document to earn the CLC are volunteering at a local shelter and tutoring. I think this sort of engagement is important because it encompasses one of my main reasons for studying abroad, which is becoming more familiar with a new culture, and it is a unique way for personal development.