Aki Kuroiwa

"My school, Chilton Saint James is such a pretty school. It has lots of trees, flowers and big green fields. Almost all the buildings are white. That looks so bright. If it’s sunny you eat lunch outside.

It’s so nice!

At first you have to make friends. Somebody might not know how to make friends. I was always laughing and making a friendly face. You should ask everything about the people you meet, for example, their name, family and birthday. You have to be positive. This is important!!

If you feel sad you should cry and forget it after you have cried! Probably you’ll feel unsettled for the first 3 months. That’s fine; it’s no wonder when you first leave home. When you have troubles or are worried about something or you are feel sad, you can discuss with your host family or friends or teachers!! Don’t be shy.

Of course you have to study English. You should talk to New Zealanders often if possible, because that helps you to improve your English. I recommend that you make New Zealand friends first.

I also want to talk to you about home stays! I didn’t change my host family for 10 months. They are my host dad, with me. I was so glad that they were my host family. I don’t have any regrets! By the way, you have to help your host family with some tasks. I helped with the washing, cleaning up and looking after my host sister.

I think you need to make conversation with your host family. Especially at night before you go to bed. Don’t retire into your room! You should find a topic!! If they can’t understand what you mean.

Don’t give up!

I recommend one more thing. You should travel in New Zealand with your host family or your family if you can. New Zealand is such beautiful country. In September I went to the south island with my mum and dad. I saw many, many different NZ sights and landscapes there. I was so emotional when I saw that. I think you should go there!

Anyway, If you want to enjoy your study life abroad. You can enjoy it so much. Always try something and make memories!! I think your attitude is very important!! Do not give up,

Do not forget to smile, to be friendly, and to converse in English.

Try anything, help each other!! You can do it!! I hope you have a great study life abroad.

Take it easy!! GOOD LUCK!!"