Engineering Student Studies in New Zealand
10/26/2007
SUNY New Paltz students have the opportunity to study in another country for a semester or more through the Study Abroad Program conducted by Bruce Sillner, Dean of International Programs. Luke Buschmann, a SUNY New Paltz computer engineering student, took advantage of this opportunity in the spring of 2007, spending five months at Victoria University, located in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Luke completed 12 credits in math and music classes, to fulfill requirements in his major and to further his independent study in music. “The five months I spent in New Zealand was the most amazing time of my life,” Luke said.
Luke found that there was never a shortage of things to do in Wellington. The beach, museums, parliament, and nature/ wildlife preserves were within walking distance of the hostel where he stayed. A 15-minute drive outside of the city took him to dramatic and amazingly beautiful landscapes like nothing found in the U.S. In Luke’s words, “Wellington was a perfect blend of city life and natural beauty.”
Luke Buschmann and Ariana Basco (another SUNY New Paltz student in the Study Abroad Program) taking a break at the Victoria University Campus, with the beautiful city of Wellington in the background
During semester breaks and vacations, Luke traveled around and explored the country. According to him, “The people are friendly, laid back, and kind. It is safe enough to hitchhike and there aren’t even any dangerous animals in the country. I spent many nights sleeping outside under the stars with the friends and travelers I met there.”
Luke enchanted by the tranquility of “White Horse Hill”, in South Island, New Zealand.
Luke summed up his experience with these words:
“Studying abroad gives the opportunity for a student to become independent. It allows students to explore all of the great things in life while studying for their degree. For me, it felt like a 5-month adventure vacation with the benefit of earning credit towards my degree.”
