Tell us about your experience on this programme
Participating in the 360 International Programme through Think Pacific was an enriching experience that expanded my academic and personal horizons. I first learned about the opportunity through my university’s study abroad office, and after researching the programme provider, I was eager to gain a global perspective on my field of study. Before traveling, I anticipated an immersive learning experience, but the programme far exceeded my expectations. From engaging pre-departure content which provided valuable information and direct insights on what to expect from the programme. One of the most rewarding aspects of the programme was the structured mix of academic and experiential learning. A particularly eye-opening experience was hosting workshops which the youth of the village attend, this experience of essentially teaching mental health and wellbeing helped me gain perspective on what mental health and wellbeing means to different people. Hosting these workshops helped me to gain confidence and the ability to listen and understand humans on a deeper level. In the afternoon we contributed in culture courses which were hosted by the assigned youth as they taught us things like the history of the village, different cooking methods and traditional dance which helped me reshape and understand the values of Fijian culture. The prior meeting with our project leaders and volunteers at the resort briefing was super beneficial as it helped us all connect with one another before entering the village. These connections helped us understand one another and form bonds that essential to if we needed to be there for each other in the village during hard times. While adjusting to a new environment the support from the project leaders and fellow volunteers programme staff made the transition smoother. The accommodation was comfortable and well-located, allowing for easy access from airport to accommodation. Then proceeding on to the briefing resort was good as it was closer to the village and had great facilities for team bonding. Taking the initiative to explore beyond the structured programme, whether through independent research, networking, or cultural activities, can further enhance the value of the experience. Ultimately, this short-term programme provided me with a broader, more critical perspective on global issues, reinforcing my academic interests and future career aspirations.
Were you satisfied with the cross-cultural experiences this programme provided?
Yes, I was highly satisfied with the cross-cultural experiences that the 360 International Programme provided. One of the most valuable aspects of the programme was the opportunity to engage directly with local communities, students, and professionals, which deepened my understanding of cultural and systemic differences in areas related to my studies. These experiences went beyond the classroom, offering an immersive and meaningful exploration of different perspectives. Beyond academic engagements, cultural activities such as guided city tours, traditional performances, and local cuisine experiences enriched my appreciation of the host country’s heritage. This programme reinforced the importance of cultural humility and critical reflection when engaging with global issues, making it a truly transformative experience.
What skills do you think this experience helped you gain, and how so? How might this differ from the experience you could otherwise gain in New Zealand?
This experience helped me develop a range of skills, including cross-cultural communication, critical thinking, and adaptability. Engaging with students, academics, and professionals from diverse backgrounds sharpened my ability to communicate effectively across cultural and linguistic differences. This was particularly valuable in discussions around justice systems and social policies, where perspectives varied significantly based on historical and political contexts. Learning to navigate these differences respectfully and thoughtfully was an important skill that I may not have developed as deeply in a New Zealand-based programme. Additionally, navigating an unfamiliar environment enhanced my adaptability and problem-solving abilities. Whether it was adjusting to different academic expectations, managing logistical challenges, or engaging with new cultural norms, the experience required a level of flexibility that helped build confidence in unfamiliar situations.
Did you encounter any particular challenges in preparing for or during this programme that might be important for future students to be aware of?
One unexpected challenge was managing time effectively to balance my alone time during the village as sometimes you may feel stressed and overloaded with emotions. In saying that I feel like my group quickly discovered that a little time in your own space is essential to keeping your energy positive during your stay.
You rated this experience as one you were “highly likely to recommend” to a friend. What gives you the confidence to do so?
I would highly recommend this programme to a friend due to its exceptional academic, cultural, and personal growth opportunities. The combination of structured learning, hands-on experiences, and cross-cultural engagement made this an incredibly enriching experience that exceeded my expectations. One of the key factors informing my recommendation is the programme’s ability to provide deep, firsthand insights into international perspectives on criminology, justice systems, and social policies–something that is difficult to replicate through coursework alone in New Zealand. Additionally, the programme was well-organized, with strong support from the 360 International team and local hosts, ensuring that participants could focus on making the most of their time abroad. The balance between academic activities and cultural immersion allowed for a well-rounded experience, fostering critical thinking, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills. Overall, this experience has broadened my perspective mental health and wellbeing issues and perspectives around the world as it reinforced by academic interests, making it an opportunity I would highly encourage others to pursue.
