Eun Young Kil

She's just 21 but Eun Young Kil (Emily) knows where she's heading.

With her sights set on a future in hospitality, the bubbly Korean has opted for a New Zealand study experience. It's a move which will bring Emily one step closer to her goal.

"I came to New Zealand in November 2004 after graduating from college in Hanam City, where I studied hospitality. I'd also studied traditional Korean food and western food at an academy in Korea," says Emily.

"At first I was really interested in the food side of things and cheffing but now I've changed my mind and am more interested in bar and beverage service. I'm particularly interested in wine and cocktails."

When Emily found out about FERN English Academy and its connection with New Zealand Management Academies (NZMA), she knew she'd found the right place to study. NZMA owns FERN and is one of the leading hospitality training providers in the country. In 2003, 2004 and 2005 it won the Training Excellence Award at the prestigious National Culinary Fare. It has a variety of certificate and diploma courses which students can staircase onto from FERN.

"I've come to New Zealand to improve my English, gain a hospitality qualification and some work experience. At the moment I'm in the IELTS preparation class at FERN, which was recommended to me. I need IELTS so I can move onto further hospitality studies.

"I've been at FERN since the beginning of this year and I really like it here. All the teachers are really skilled and most of them are young so they understand us. Every Friday we have activities such as going to the beach and having barbecues. This has given me great opportunities to experience New Zealand culture and life."

And when it comes to life Down Under, Emily couldn't be happier.

"I really love New Zealand. I'm flatting in the city and I enjoy my life a great deal," she says with a grin.