Ākonga eye the world with Ara’s global exchange options

_{Ara Scholarships and Global Exchange Coordinator Jessica Zhang shared her own exchnage experience.}

For Ara ākonga (students) keen to study in Asia, Europe or the US, the dream may be a step closer to reality.

A lunchtime workshop this week drew strong interest from ākonga keen to learn about Ara Institute of Canterbury's international exchange programme - and the Ara Foundation grants of up to $10,000 that could help fund it.

The session was the first event linked to Ara’s Get Set to Fly campaign, designed to encourage more ākonga to consider studying abroad as part of their degree.

Bachelor of Architecture Studies ākonga Tyler Fraser walked in curious and walked out excited.

"It's such a cool opportunity," he said. "I looked online but this has provided a few more insights - and the grant is a real drawcard.”

Through the programme, ākonga can study at one of 21 partner institutes worldwide without paying additional fees, while staying on track with their Ara degree.

Travel, accommodation and living costs are their own responsibility - but that's exactly where the grant could come in. Five are available each year, with recipients asked to share their experience or mentor future exchange ākonga when they return.

Ara Manager for Local and Global Marketing Carl Pavletich said the wide range of destinations on offer and the possibility of financial support were powerful drawcards.

“Studying overseas can be life-changing, and the Ara Foundation grants could help make that opportunity more realistic for many who might not otherwise think it’s possible.”

Ara Scholarships and Global Exchange Coordinator Jessica Zhang knows the benefits first-hand. She came to New Zealand from China to study herself and said the experience changed her trajectory.

"Not only did I fall in love with a new country and culture, but travel helped me build confidence and enhanced my CV," she said to the gathering of interested ākonga. "You can make personal and professional connections and grow in ways that really shape your future."

Destinations include Canada, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Norway, Japan, South Korea and the US.

For Bachelor of Applied Science (Nutrition) ākonga Natalie McCall, the workshop opened her eyes to possibilities she hadn't considered.

"I didn't think there were so many places we could go - it was really eye-opening," she said. "Now I'm keen to find out whether my degree correlates to what's on offer."

To be eligible, ākonga must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, enrolled in an Ara degree, in their second year at the time of exchange, and maintaining a B average or above.

Applications are open. Ākonga can find out more by contacting Ara's exchange coordinator or visiting the Ara Student Exchange website.