Meet the Dream New scholarship recipients

ENZ received nearly 300 applications from across 20 EU countries. Candidates were chosen based on their fantastic academic results as well as creative motivational essays or videos.

The winners begin their New Zealand adventure in February or July 2018, and as official ‘Kiwi Ambassadors’ will keep us updated throughout their time in New Zealand.

 Lisa Futschek, ENZ Regional Director – Americas and Europe said the 10 recipients reflect the growing number of high-quality European students that look to New Zealand for a unique study abroad experience.

“European students immerse themselves into the Kiwi lifestyle very easily. They value the wide range of programmes our education providers offer and the accessibility of our professors and tutors – in their home countries, this relationship tends to be much more formal,” said Lisa.

“They are also quite adventurous, and in their free time they will use every opportunity to explore the beautiful New Zealand landscape and engage in outdoor pursuits they have heard so much about.”

The scholarship was launched in December 2015 by Prime Minister John Key as part of the FTA campaigning in Europe. The scholarship offers EU students one study abroad semester in New Zealand (valued at up to $12,500 NZD), sending students to New Zealand universities and ITPs.

Jaime Pérez Fernández (Spain)

New Zealand is so far away from my home, there is no better place to find myself. I chose Victoria University because Wellington is the same size as my home city, and it is close to the South Island – ideal to explore as much of New Zealand as possible. July can’t come fast enough!

 

Christoph Scholder (Germany)   

I am really excited to start a new adventure on the other side of the globe! I am especially looking forward to the nature in New Zealand, and to see how Victoria University of Wellington differs from my home university and city. I’m sure I’m going to have an amazing time!

 

Anna Stroh (Germany)

I am excited to study anthropology and marine ecology at the beautiful campus of University of Otago. I can’t wait to explore the stunning landscape and I am looking forward to experience Māori culture and perform the haka. To study in New Zealand was my dream, and receiving the scholarship fulfilled it.

 

Lars Tauer (Germany)   

I chose the University of Otago in Dunedin for the nature, the friendly people and the university’s excellent reputation. I will be able to gain insights in fields of study I would not have been able to at my university in Germany. I cannot wait to start having the time of my life in New Zealand.

 

Nadja Kampendonk (Germany)

I am so excited to study abroad next year. I always dreamt of going to New Zealand and seeing all the unbelievable landscapes. I chose the University of Canterbury because it allows me to further my French studies while also taking an English course to improve my English writing skills.

 

Lavinya Stennet (UK)   

New Zealand is a true adventure – in the physical sense and in terms of being able to learn more. I chose University of Waikato for its Māori and Indigenous Studies courses, which is a privilege for me to learn about. I am ready to learn some Māori songs and explore the mountainous regions of New Zealand!

 

Claudia Aybar (Spain)

My love of adventure and travelling led me to apply for the Dream New Scholarship. Auckland University of Technology caught my attention for its modern and attractive campus and high-quality standards. New Zealand is the perfect destination to have an amazing experience and enhance my education. I am really looking forward to starting this adventure.

 

Patricia Jahn (Germany)  

I chose Lincoln University for its agriculture and environmental studies. I also imagine its population of 4000 students will be a unique experience, studying in small groups. I also want to explore the countryside including Mount Stokes, Abel Tasman National Park, Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki, as well as Akaroa.

 

Marlene Braach (Germany)

I have already started my first semester at Ara Institute of Canterbury, and will now stay for a second! New Zealand’s cultural diversity is what drew me here, and I got more involved in this by volunteering at the Contemporary Art Gallery. I’m glad to have the opportunity to study here and learn new things.

 

Georg Zunhammer (Germany) 

My goal has always been to spend a semester abroad, and Massey University in Auckland met all my criteria. As an avid runner and hiker I am fascinated by what the nature there has to offer. I look forward to experiencing a completely different culture, lifestyle and to meet lots of new people