SPC student, Mckenzie Terry, shares her experience in New Zealand with St. Petersburg College after receiving a study abroad scholarship:

“My trip to New Zealand has completely changed me as a person. I had severe anxiety and as time flew by, my fear of being away from home for sixteen days grew stronger and stronger. My anxiety got to the point that I contemplated backing out because I was scared that I would panic and ruin the trip for myself. As a scholarship recipient, I feel I would have let the school down, my family, and myself. I am so thankful I had faith in my own strength because I had the most amazing time being on my own in an unfamiliar country. Going to New Zealand was the best decision I have ever made. I was taken out of my comfort zone and placed into a new state of growth, independence, and confidence. I felt so powerful, because for once I had control over my anxiety. Not to mention all the people I had the pleasure of meeting. The students I met are people I will never forget, and the bond we hold is one that does not require a conversation every day; it is one that will never die. I believe that the trip was meant to be, because of the specific group of people that came together. There was so much gratitude, emotion, and moving stories shared within this group of people. And with these genuine people we were introduced to the Maori people, and most importantly Terri Lee, our teacher in New Zealand. I am forever grateful for learning about the importance of culture, values, and morals. The eye-opening awareness and perspective that the study broad to New Zealand brought upon me, is forever engraved in my conscience. I do not drive the streets of Saint Petersburg, Florida the same. I see things and feel things with an appreciation I did not have before. I pay attention to the rhyme and reason of why people do what they do. We learned the power of family firsthand, blood, and significantly, not blood. Family was including the students and faculty during our preparation of the Hangi. It felt like a New Zealand thanksgiving. One student became a dance instructor, one faculty teacher was a fan favorite for a semi girl sleep over, and everyone came together in some shape or form. I never felt out of place and more at home. Studying abroad is something I will recommend as much as I possibly again, especially to those who fear they cannot do it. People need to see the world, and what it holds. What an experience and blessing it was to be exposed to the warm culture of the Maori and to the home of the Kiwi’s. I am forever changed.”

“Everything you’ve ever wanted, is on the other side of fear” – George Addair.

-McKenzie Terry, SPC Student, New Zealand 2018