Study Abroad

Scott Markley '12

Where did you study abroad?
Kaikoura, New Zealand

What is your favorite experience from your time there?
I really enjoyed the opportunity that I had to climb Mount Tapuae-o-Uenuku. This was said to be a three day trip with one day to hike to the hut, the second the summit, and the third to come back. The hut was placed at 1300 feet which must have been air-lifted in because there was no road access for miles. The hut was equipped with cots, pans, table, chairs, and a large fresh water basin. The second day, it was time for the summit hike, soaring 2885 meters above sea level. We were affected by the low oxygen density of the air, which made taking breaks every twenty feet a must. While on our way up we passed wild mountain goats. Even with a whopping 240 stream crossings total and crossing many valleys, the view at the top was so worth it. We were in the clouds! You could see the ocean right below is and the north island of New Zealand. Up at that elevation, no living thing could survive. We had a great 360 degree view of the diversity of God's creation.

What was the hardest thing about being in the country where you studied?
It was hard adjusting to the lack of communication that we were exposed to. Even though there was internet, it was very limited. There were no cell phones to text your friends to see if they wanted to hang out or wanted to go somewhere.

Would you like to go back and why?
I would certainly like to go back. I wanted to go to New Zealand because I heard it was the "adventure capital of the world" which it was. Being an Adventure Education major, it was really neat to see all the new adventurous activities that I had never been exposed to. It was great to experience a more laid back country. People in this country were not worried about others trespassing on their land to explore God's creation, or being sued for a silly little thing. Everyone was so trusting and giving. I want to go back to live with a New Zealand personality and do all kinds of adventure activities.

What's your favorite thing to do on campus?
My favorite thing is to be involved with different club and organizations. I am very involved with the Outdoors Club and really enjoy being outside to see all of God's diverse creation while doing a fun adventure activity whether it be kayaking, rock climbing, or caving. I also enjoy being one of Messiah's student photographers. This allows me to see many events and meet many people along with practicing my photography skills.

What do you like best about Messiah College?
Coming from a pubic high school in New Jersey, I really like being surrounded with other people who have the same relative beliefs as I do. It is also neat to be engulfed by all the friendly students, faculty, and staff.