This trip to New Zealand and Australia was truly transformative and exceeded every expectation I had. In Auckland, we explored the historic grounds of Waitangi and experienced traditional Māori dances and songs, celebrated New Year’s by watching fireworks from the Sky Tower, and gained insight into the global business landscape by learning about the New Zealand economy and visiting organizations such as the American Chamber of Commerce. One of the most meaningful aspects was seeing how global firms like the Big Four operate abroad—especially knowing many of my peers will intern with these firms in the United States. These experiences, combined with exploring the city and building friendships, made every moment both educational and memorable.
Our time in Australia was equally impactful. Visiting the Sydney Opera House was a long-time bucket list goal, and touring PwC Sydney allowed us to connect with professionals working internationally. One unforgettable highlight was skydiving with fellow students I had only met a week prior—an experience that perfectly captured the trust and friendships formed on this trip. We also visited Cochlear, a company that creates life-changing cochlear implants, and encountered wildlife such as kangaroos, koalas, and emus for the first time. This journey broadened my cultural perspective, sparked a strong ambition to work internationally, and reminded me how powerful learning outside the classroom can be. I am incredibly grateful to Professor Don and Dr. McGowan for making this experience possible, and I look forward to sharing what I learned back on campus.
