You CAN have it all: Studying around the world

NMIT Bachelor of Aquaculture and Marine Conservation(external link) students Ben Beveridge and Sam Currin are spending one semester at NMIT partner institute, Nord University in Bodø, Norway. The opportunity to study in Norway is made possible through the NMIT student exchange programme, which allows relevant course work to be credited back to an NMIT degree. This means exchange students will still complete their degree in the planned time – a wonderful way to see the world while achieving academic goals! 

NMIT also welcomes learners from partner institutes across the globe to study in Te Tauihu (Top of the South Island), and experience life in Aotearoa. 

Ben and Sam have settled well in Norway, noticing both similarities and differences with life in New Zealand.

“Coming to Norway is a big change, being over 17,000 kms from New Zealand, but it does hold striking similarities to home, with the geographical landscapes being similar but a bit more extreme. University life is different to Polytech life, with large lecture halls filled with students from varying academic levels and countries,” says Sam.

“Cost of living is cheaper than home. The local supermarkets are all within walking distance and the public transport systems are amazing and very affordable. Getting outdoors is easy, with the university set up for borrowing gear for free to go fishing, hiking, skiing and anything else you can think of.”

The two learners are making the most of their time in Norway’s beautiful outdoors and enjoying the easy access to transport.

“Norway is a very organised country with sightseeing and easy living conditions, and cheap access to any activity you can think of.”  

“The best sight-seeing has been in the Southern regions of Lofoten island, especially Værøy where we experienced breathtaking views of the Northern Lights over a beachfront bonfire, amongst Norway's surrounding beauty. Travelling to and from the islands is completely free if you do not have a car,” said Ben. 

Anja Studer, NMIT Aquaculture tutor sees great benefits in the exchange for learners wanting to gain an international perspective on aquaculture concepts and approaches. 

“This is such an amazing opportunity for our students, academically but also in terms of their personal and professional development. The links these students make and the experiences they gain will benefit not only them, but their peers and us tutors back here in Aotearoa New Zealand.” 

Find out more about the NMIT Student Exchange programme(external link) 

Learn more about Aquaculture and Marine Conservation(external link)