The two-week academic exchange program at Lincoln University in New Zealand has concluded quietly. This journey, spanning classrooms to streets, city centers to harbors, and from theoretical learning to fieldwork, from writing to expression, and from culture to nature, was not only an enhancement of language and professional skills but also a profound experience of growth and self-discovery.

I. Academic Exploration in the Multidimensional Curriculum

We reminisced about the first day's self-introductions and ice-breaking activities, where shyness and anticipation became the starting point of our journey. In class, students immersed themselves in Academic Writing and Critical Reading exercises, mastering the skills of academic expression and critical reading under the guidance of Lincoln University's EAP instructors.

The course uniquely integrates field projects—after studying sustainable development cases in the hospitality industry, students visit Hotel Montreal for an on-site experience, bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world applications to gain a deep understanding of New Zealand's cutting-edge sustainability concepts. This approach not only enhances students' English proficiency but also cultivates their critical thinking and global perspective.

In the end, the students showcased their two-week learning journey through an outstanding Final Presentation, demonstrating confidence and maturity in every aspect—from language organization and content depth to personal growth and teamwork.

II. Deep Experience Under Cultural Immersion

During their exploration of Austronesian indigenous lifestyles, students visited Hotel Montreal to observe its meticulous operational management. Through wine tastings, they experienced the craftsmanship and reverence for nature from vineyard to glass. At the Maori cultural immersion day, they paddled the Avon River and witnessed the teamwork spirit of the waka canoe. Each activity transcended mere observation—it was a journey of deep understanding.

The students learned Maori language instructions and listened to the story behind the war dance 'Ka Mate' —a touching legend about escape, refuge, and rebirth. By connecting with this land in the Maori way, breathing in the wind, rivers, and trees, we also rediscovered the true meaning of 'respect' and 'connection.'

On the Akaroa cruise ship, students had an up-close encounter with a group of leaping dolphins. Thanks to the ship's eco-friendly design, the dolphins were happy to approach, and this harmonious interaction between humans and nature became the most delightful moment of the entire voyage.

This picturesque coastal town, steeped in French charm, is hailed as a "fairy-tale harbor hidden within a volcanic crater." Its tranquil rhythm, French architecture, and emerald hills compose a mesmerizing panorama of the South Pacific. As students stand on the deck, gazing at the azure sky and listening to the waves, they experience life's flow in harmony with nature's rhythms. What they behold is not merely scenery, but a world of gentleness, balance, and profound beauty—a landscape worthy of preservation.

III. Life Experience: Finding a "Second Home" in Homestay

The warmest memories of this journey were the nightly dinners with host families. From the meticulously prepared meals and late-night conversations to the heartfelt letters left in the kitchen before parting, these experiences allowed students to truly grasp the essence of 'home.' Cross-cultural communication, no longer confined to textbook terms, blossomed into organic connections through authentic dialogues.

IV. The Glorious Moment: Final Presentation & Farewell Reflection

On the final day of their study tour, the students delivered a deeply moving Final Presentation. Each participant confidently shared their two-week learning journey and personal growth stories in fluent English. Some recounted the heartwarming encounter with dolphins in Akaroa, while others reflected on the warm moments spent with their host families. These stories collectively formed a unique 'Southern Hemisphere Memory Atlas' for each participant.

We then gathered for a heartwarming Farewell Lunch with EAP faculty and program coordinators from the University of Lincoln to celebrate this successful academic journey. The university presented each student with commemorative certificates and caps as a token of appreciation for their dedication and outstanding performance throughout the course.

During the meal, the teachers offered heartfelt Maori Blessings (Maori Blessing), symbolizing departure, blessings, and farewell, bringing this journey of cultural and emotional connection to a warm conclusion. Kia kaha, kia maia, kia manawanui.

V. Learning is more than growth

Though brief, two weeks constitute a profound journey of self-expansion. Every act of speaking and listening, every attempt and acceptance, marks a step for the youth toward the world.

Authentic education transcends mere knowledge transmission—it requires stepping beyond comfort zones, embracing diversity, and cultivating inner strength. From entering foreign classrooms to experiencing cultural differences, every encounter becomes a dialogue with the world and with oneself.

Farewell to Lincoln, thank you for meeting him

With the final bus departing from the campus, the Lincoln University Short-term Study Program has concluded successfully. We believe it leaves behind not a 'period,' but an 'ellipsis' leading to a broader world.

May this academic visit not merely be a line in your resume, but a luminous chapter in your life. May every step beyond your comfort zone lead you with greater determination toward that clear and confident self.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lincoln University for its thoughtful arrangements, to the host families for their warm hospitality, and to the project team for their full support. We also appreciate the trust and dedication of every student.

If you want to experience a real New Zealand classroom...

Want to boost your English communication skills in global classrooms, engage with the world, broaden your horizons, and build a strong application portfolio?

Join us at the University of Lincoln in New Zealand for an immersive study tour that blends academic excellence, cultural immersion, and authentic lifestyle experiences!

This two-week program combines academic writing, critical reading, and field research with immersive experiences like sustainable development workshops, an ecological cruise through Akaroa, a Maori cultural immersion day, and a wine estate tour, helping you grow and broaden your horizons.

Every moment is the beginning of 'seeing the world' and the starting point of 'seeing oneself'.

Join us for the next Southern Hemisphere classroom tour!