Meet the Dream NEW scholarship winners

The initiative 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 $12,500 NZD) - sending one student to each of New Zealand’s eight universities.

We received nearly 400 applications from across 21 EU countries, with the majority of students applying from Germany. Candidates were selected based on a combination of their fantastic academic results as well as creative motivational essays or videos.

The winners begin their New Zealand adventure in February 2017, and as official ‘Kiwi Ambassadors’ will keep us updated throughout their time in New Zealand.

Here the eight winners share with us the moment they heard the news, as well as what they are most looking forward to.

Patrick Rebacz (from Germany, going to Massey University)

“I have never been to New Zealand, so I am very curious about the culture, the landscape, the education system and the food. I am looking forward to meeting new people, getting lots of new ideas, being part of a great educational infrastructure and exploring the amazing landscapes. It will be an inspiring and rewarding experience.”

Veronika Rudolf (from Germany, going to University of Waikato)

"When I received the call about the Dream NEW Scholarship I couldn't believe it! Even after telling my family and friends, and starting the preparations, it still feels like a dream. I'm looking forward to my papers about Māori culture at the University of Waikato - I can't wait to start my journey and experience a whole new part of the world."

Lisa Kullander (from Sweden, going to Lincoln University)

“I was so excited when I found out that I won that I wanted to jump and scream with joy. It has given me the opportunity to fulfil my dream to study in New Zealand. There are so many things that I am looking forward to, like exploring the amazing nature. But as a landscape architecture student, what makes me most excited is all the knowledge and inspiration this opportunity will provide me with.” 

Marvin Stüde (from Germany, going to University of Auckland)

“I am most excited to explore the beautiful country and to attend interesting courses about topics which are not taught at my home university. I have no doubt that I will have a great time during my study abroad!”

Read his essay submission here.

Laura Schnelle (from Germany, going to University of Canterbury)

"I am looking forward to living in Christchurch, exploring the great outdoors and learning new things about health education and motivational psychology!"

Read her essay entry here.

Simone Grilli (from Italy, going to Auckland University of Technology)

“I am definitely ready for this new adventure and know it will be one of the most important of my life. My mind is focused on the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand, the unique culture and the All Blacks - the best rugby team in the World!”

Anna Czerwinska (from Poland, going to Victoria University of Wellington)

“I only shared the news with my best friend, my boyfriend and my sister – telling them that it could not be true, it was a dream. During the first week I didn’t tell anyone else about it - I still can't believe that it really happened!”

Watch her video entry here.

Svenja Niederkrome (from Germany going to University of Otago)

“I can’t put into words how happy I was when I found out that I’m one of the lucky recipients! For me, New Zealand is a little paradise at the other side of the world and I can’t wait to spend a whole term studying in such a unique place!”

Watch her video entry here.