Program Details
Location
Wellington & Dunedin,
New Zealand
Term
May Session (Spring semester on campus)
Housing
Hostel
Hotel
Languages Taught In
English
Program Eligibility
Student Type
UofM Students
Student Year
Freshmen
GPA
No Requirement
About
An island nation of fiords and volcanoes that has followed a unique evolutionary path, New Zealand is the ideal place to read and write about the natural world. Populated by flightless birds and outsize insects, it has no native land mammals except bats.
The country is at the forefront of many scientific debates and challenges, including evolution on islands, the impacts and control of native species, climate change, and reintroduction biology. You’ll increase your knowledge of the natural world and current scientific debates and challenges, including evolution on islands, the impacts and control of native species, climate change, and reintroduction biology. You’ll also meet with the experts in the field, such as scientists and conservation professionals.
We’ll explore Wellington, the capital city, as well as Dunedin, the "Wildlife Capital of New Zealand," a city rich in Maori and Scottish heritage, Victorian architecture, and literary tradition.
Course Description
Useful for writers, science students, those engaged with environmental issues, and curious adventurers, this course begins after spring break and extends into May with a two-week immersion experience in New Zealand.
You’ll visit Matiu/Somes Island, a predator-free scientific reserve, the Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa Tongarewa), and the Otago Peninsula, home of colonies of little blue penguins and royal albatross.
Program Model
Housing & Meals
You will live in shared rooms with fellow program participants. A welcome and farewell meal, breakfasts, and some additional meals are included in the program fee.
Excursions
Excursions may include:
- walking tour of Wellington
- excursion to Matiu/Somes Island
- kayaking off the New Zealand coastline
- volunteer restoration project at Orokonui Ecosanctuary
- wildlife cruises
- Royale Albatross Centre/Blue Penguins tour
- personal time to explore beaches, museums, and wildlife reserves
Flight
All program participants will take the coordinated group flight to and from the program site. The cost of the group flight is included in the program fee that will be posted to your student account. Do not book your own flight; you will receive information from the Learning Abroad Center about your seat on the group flight once your participation has been confirmed.
Learning Outcomes
- Socialize as global professionals who understand that human interaction and culture are relevant to achieving professional goals
- Discover and connect with the University of Minnesota campus and community
- Think critically, analyze topics, and appreciate diverse perspectives through pre-departure coursework, studying abroad, and guided reflection
- Function as an effective team member by utilizing personal strengths in a group setting
- Develop an understanding of the importance of future international and intercultural learning
Faculty & Staff
This course is led by Kim Todd, Professor of English Languages & Literature.
Program Structure
Program Level
1900-level course
Courseload
One 3-credit course
Course Schedule
This is an on-campus class during the spring semester.
On-campus Spring Semester 2024 course meets: Tuesdays & Thursdays from 1 p.m.–2:15 p.m. on East Bank, B-term (March 12–May 7, 2024); Abroad term: May Session 2024 (May 10–24, 2024—tentative)
Coursework
This course qualifies as a writing-intensive course. You’ll be assessed via field journals, short papers, an audio or video essay, and a final paper that revises and develops ideas launched in your field journal entries and shorter papers.
It can be tied to four Sustainable Development Goals: #11 Sustainable Cities and Communities, #13 Climate Action, #14 Life Below Water, and #15 Life on Land. The one it addresses most comprehensively is Life on Land.
(Tentative) Syllabus for Wild Words: Writing & Conservation in New Zealand
Receive credit for: ENGW 1912W
Liberal Education Fulfillment: Global Perspectives & Writing Intensive
Dates Details
Submit the online application and complete the assigned application checklist according to the appropriate deadline:
| Term | Program Dates | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| May 2024 | May 9–May 24, 2024 | January 15, 2024 |
Program dates are subject to change.
If the deadline falls on a weekend, submit your materials on the following business day.
Important Note: Enrollment on this program is limited to 20 students. Admission is granted on a rolling basis and applications are reviewed in the order they are completed. Some programs may fill to capacity prior to the application deadline, therefore applying early is recommended. Additionally, applying early will allow for more time to plan ahead and prepare for the program.
Information Sessions
Join in-person or over Zoom. Register and learn more about this and other events on our events page.
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Fri., Nov. 17 | 12:00 p.m. | Online (register for Zoom link) |
| Mon., Nov. 20 | 12:30 p.m. | Online (register for Zoom link) |
| Wed., Nov. 29 | 4:00 p.m. | Hybrid (Pillsbury Hall 412 or Zoom) |
| Thurs., Dec. 14 | 12:30 p.m. | Hybrid (Hubert Humphrey 289 or Zoom) |
| Wed., Dec. 20 | 12:00 p.m. | Online (register for Zoom link) |
On Campus Dates
Tuesdays & Thursdays from 1:00–2:15 p.m. on East Bank, B-term (March 12–May 7, 2024)
Orientation Dates & Locations
Orientation will be conducted in 2 parts: an online orientation—which is mandatory—and in-person or online program-specific session with program leader(s). All meetings are required and failure to complete the online orientation will impact your ability to go abroad. The online orientation module is found on your application checklist and is due by your first orientation session.
You will be notified of the official date and time of required orientation sessions or will be contacted to send availability in order to schedule sessions. Reach out to your program leader directly for any concerns about orientation session date and times. You will receive applicable orientation materials from your program leader either in advance or after the orientation session(s).
Fees
May Session 2024 Cost of Participation
The program fee includes airfare, housing, program administration, welcome and farewell meals, some additional meals, international health insurance, entrances to course-related excursions and site visits, airport transfers, and in-country transportation for all course related activities. You must also budget for passport and passport photos, a few meals, spending money, and miscellaneous living expenses.
Recent increases in international airfare and accommodation costs have impacted all instructor-led program fees. The LAC strives to follow best practices to provide the lowest cost program while ensuring a quality academic experience.
If you are registered for less than 13 credits, you will be charged tuition for this course in addition to the program fee.
Billing & Payments
Visit Billing for information about the billing process for application fees, deposits, and program fees.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Visit Financial Information for information on using financial aid and scholarships for study abroad.
Special Funding is available through the Gerald B. & Catherine L. Fischer Freshman Seminar Abroad Scholarship.
Bridging Loan
Bridging Loan, a no-interest/no-fees loan that funds the upfront deposit and flights costs, is available for this program for eligible students.
Cancellation Policy
Before you apply to or confirm your participation on this program, review the Learning Abroad Center's Cancellation Policy to inform yourself of the timeline and financial obligations for canceling.
May 2024
Freshman Seminar Abroad: Wild Words: Writing & Conservation in New ZealandMay Session 2024 (Spring on campus course) |
|
|---|---|
Program Fee
|
|
| Non-refundable deposit | $400 |
| Tuition and educational costs | $3,333 |
| International health insurance | $38 |
| Housing and/or mealsTwo meals + arrival day snack will be provided. | $699 |
| Transportation (if required and included in program fee) | $2,750 |
| Total Program Fee | $7,220 |
| Program discount for University of Minnesota and Big Ten students, if applicable | $0 |
| Total Program Fee with discount, if applicable | $7,220 |
Estimated Additional Expenses
|
|
| Costs Typically Incurred Prior to Departure These costs may need to be paid before your financial aid is disbursed for your term abroad. | |
| Transportation to and from program siteGround transportation to/from MSP airport not included | $50 |
| Passport/photos | $150 |
| Visa/required documents | $0 |
| Travel clinic/immunizations* | $50 |
| Housing deposit | $0 |
| Total Estimated Cost Incurred Prior to Departure | $250 |
| Costs Typically Incurred After Arrival in Host Country | |
| Texts/materials | $50 |
| Housing and/or meals not included in program feeTwo meals + arrival day snack will be provided. | $125 |
| Essential daily living expensesCell phones required. | $100 |
| Total Estimated Cost Incurred After Arrival in Host Country | $275 |
Total Estimated Cost of Participation
|
|
| Total Estimated Cost of Participation | $7,745 |
| Spending money and personal travel Not included in financial aid calculation | $250 |
| Additional Notes & Information | |
| * Immunizations Note: This estimate is based on approximate cost of travel-related vaccinations and medications required for entry or recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Your costs may be higher or lower depending on your travel clinic, the specific immunizations and medication prescribed, and your insurance coverage. | |
Prepare
Be aware: Learning Abroad Center programs require a $50 application fee. This fee will be charged to your student account upon submission of an online application.
COVID-19 Information
A COVID-19 vaccine & booster and negative COVID test before departure (own expense) may be required on arrival in country or at various venues in this location (based on current government and local policies). This may change before departure.
Participants are expected to follow local and governmental COVID-19 guidelines and requirements while abroad. Visit the CDC International Travel website and the LAC COVID Policies page for updated information.
US Consulate in New Zealand COVID-19 Information site (current updates on entry/exit and local requirements).
More information can be provided during advising sessions and pre-departure orientation with the program contact in the LAC.
Apply
The COVID-19 vaccine series is strongly recommended, pursuant to CDC guidelines, but not required for participation in this program.
You will be charged a $50 application fee for each application you submit.
Complete
After you submit your application, you will receive an email notification confirming that your application was received. Submitted applications are assigned an application checklist, which will include the following items:
- Application Essay
Detailed descriptions and instructions for submitting each checklist item are included on the application checklist assigned to you.
Next Steps
- After you complete all required application checklist items, you will receive an automated email message indicating your application is ready to be reviewed.
- Your completed application will be reviewed by the Learning Abroad Center.
- If admitted, the Confirmation & Payment Agreement form will be added to your checklist. Complete this form to secure your spot on the program. By submitting the form, you also give your approval for the program deposit to be billed to your UofM student account.
- Complete the confirmation checklist, which include the following items in additional to program-specific forms:
- Passport Information
- Emergency Contacts
- Health Information Form
- Online Health & Safety Orientation
- Release & Waiver
- You will receive information about additional steps from the sponsoring college/department.
Register for On-Campus Course
Your participation on this program is secured by applying and confirming through the Learning Abroad Center application process.
You will also need to register for the on-campus course ENG 1912W.
Note: Registering for the course, but not confirming through the Learning Abroad Center, will not hold your spot in the program.
After You Apply
Before your program begins, review these resources.
Health & Safety
Learn more about staying healthy and safe abroad, including mental health and wellness, international travel insurance, and safety precautions.
Power of Attorney
Consider designating someone as your power of attorney to act as your legal representative while you’re abroad.
Student Identity
Consult our resources on student identities as you prepare for your abroad experience.
Travel Resources
Ready to go abroad? Our travel resources will help you pack and learn what to expect.
Program Contact
For further information or questions about this program, send an email to
Kate Meyer at [email protected],
or call at
612.626.7535