Shiho Shindo

I first came to New Zealand when I was a High School student in Japan. Although it was a short trip I was fascinated by the nature, people and the lifestyle. Living in New Zealand refreshed my mind and I found that I could pursue my academic career successfully here.

I believe that the time I was studying at MUELC was a challenging year in my life. The priority was to pass IELTS and this thought sometimes "put me down." However, I made many lifetime friends at MUELC who encouraged me and gave me help when I needed it. The teachers were very supportive also.

After studying at MUELC I went to Massey University and studied Chinese and Psychology. I'm working here in Palmerston North now and have re-commenced studying again my goal is to complete a Masters in Psychology.

The highlight of my stay in New Zealand is graduating from Massey University with my degree. There is not as much entertainment here as in the larger cities but this makes your friendship ties even stronger. Spending time with friends is always an enjoyable time for me.

If you think that you do not really fit into the Japanese society, New Zealand may be the right place to live for you.