Asuka Minagawa

Asuka Minagawa is enjoying a six month stint in New Zealand, taking a break from her university studies to improve her English.

Three years into a degree in International Culture, she decided to take time out to rejuvenate. When she returns to Japan, Asuka will complete her final year of university and also hopefully land a job in a hotel or in the travel industry.

"In Japan I was very busy now I feel very refreshed. It's a bit like a holiday for me!" says the 22 year old from Nigata.

Asuka chose New Zealand over a string of other English-speaking countries because "it's safe, cheap and the nature is beautiful."

"I've been to other countries before but this is the first time I've visited New Zealand. I'm really enjoying it - it's very calm and quiet."

With a goal to improve her English, Asuka set about choosing a school to study at whilst in Auckland. She opted for the very popular English for Hospitality course at NZMA.

"When I go back to Japan I want to look for a job in customer service. When I complete this course I gain a certificate and that is quite useful when looking for a job in Japan.

"The classes at NZMA are very interesting. We learn about telephone manners and customer service. This will be useful for me not only in Japan, but also in New Zealand. After I finish my course I hope to get caf� work in Auckland for three months before I go home."

And thanks to NZMA's Employment Coordinators, Asuka's chances of gaining New Zealand work experience are a lot higher. The Employment Coordinators are dedicated to helping students and graduates into part-time and full-time work in the industry in which they're studying. Numerous international students and graduates from NZMA can now be found working in Auckland restaurants, hotels and bars.

Very soon, Asuka might be among them.