Yuko Tsukuda

A first-year university student in Japan, Yuko Tsukuda was keen to include English Language studies at an international university as part of her tertiary programme. Fortunately her university in Nagasaki had an exchange system in place with New Zealand, so Yuko enrolled at Massey University's English Language Centre where she not only learned English but also was able to learn from sharing different ideas and cultures. "The best thing was to communicate with a number of various nationalities through class activities. The interesting this was if we discussed one topic, our opinions were different from others because of our diverse cultural backgrounds."

A crucial element to the success of her year's studies was the warm welcome Yuko received from her homestay family in Palmerston North. "Homestay is one of things that I recommend to do here. I could compare cultural differences in terms of food, ways of living, tradition and values." She has also enjoyed easy access to town facilities. "After school I sometimes go to Massy Gym to enjoy aerobics or go to the swimming pool in the town. I also go to the town for shopping, and drinking with my friends...On the weekend I often went to 'English corner', which the city council organise. This is a conversation class for international students where I had time to talk with New Zealanders and improve my speaking."

Learning more about the New Zealand countryside and culture was another highlight of Yuko's international education. "New Zealand is a country where I could plan my own travels...I visited many cities. Each city has its own unique characteristics. I especially enjoyed Rotorua, and the Tamaki village. The village was a Maori one and you can enjoy Maori dance, song, custom and traditional food."

Having returned to Japan to complete her tertiary programme, Yuko now recommends that other Japanese students consider an international education as part of their studies. "New Zealand is a wonderful place to study and live for a year."