Ivan Smirnov

“I have just positive emotions and feelings” about being in Christchurch, New Zealand, says Ivan Smirnov.
He arrived in May 2004 with just a few words of English. But nothing held him back. He loves the friendliness of Kiwis, the social life of Christchurch and the friends he has made.
Ivan left school in Nakhodka, 3 hours from Vladivostok in Russia, and chose New Zealand to further his studies. In just a year at Excel English College he has gone from elementary English, to IELTS preparation for university in NZ. He will study business and management.
Like many who immerse themselves in NZ life, he is transformed from the lad who arrived. Now you find a confident young man with goals, vision and smooth, accented English.
About Excel he says, “The lessons are very interesting and funny. It’s great because you can get knowledge and fun in one time. They always help you if you have any problems. I like this college and I think all students will agree with me.”
Over the year Ivan went from homestay, to boarding, to flatting. He now rents with fellow student Mohammed from Saudi Arabia. They get along just fine. “I know a lot about his religion now,” says Ivan.