University of Auckland joins ‘generation study abroad’ movement

With a new partnership, the University of Auckland (UoA) has renewed its focus on providing students opportunities to study overseas.

Recently, the University has become an official Commitment Partner to the US Generation Study Abroad movement.

This is an initiative started by the US Institute of International Education (IIE) with the goal of doubling the number of US students undertaking a studying abroad experience as they work toward their degree.

Brett Berquist, UoA director international, says the partnership offers 100 scholarships worth NZD$1,275 each for students coming from the University's partner institutions; travel discounts through US travel agency Student Universe and Air New Zealand; and more short-term opportunities for international students.

These will include short courses run over the northern hemisphere summer break, research opportunities and internships, he says.

Overall, more than 630 institutions, organisations and governments across the United States and around the world that have signed on to the movement. Education New Zealand was the first organisation outside the US to join.

Stuart McCutcheon, UoA vice-chancellor professor, says innovation and creativity are vital to New Zealand's future.

"We encourage our students to learn from other cultures through the diversity of students on campus as well as by learning abroad during their degree," he says.

"This helps to develop their ability to see issues from different angles and work collaboratively across cultures.

"International understanding is important to our students' career development and will strengthen our country's ability to compete in the global marketplace of ideas," he says.

The University aims to increase the flow of students in both directions.

"The US is an important market for New Zealand, and its demands for shorter, highly experiential opportunities reflects what our own students are seeking," says Brett.

"In addition to top-rate teaching, today's students want hands-on, intensive experiences that make a difference outside the classroom.

"As we work toward our goal of 25% participation in learning abroad for Auckland students, our focus on attracting more US students will leverage our efforts to support our own students' work to incorporate overseas learning into their career development plans," he says.