Angelee Caballero

Major: Public Health
Minors: French, Latino/a/x Studies
Pathway: Global Health
Study Abroad Program Location: Christchurch, New Zealand
Study Abroad Term: Fall 2024

Student Testimony

What motivated you to pursue a global education experience?

I am originally from Colorado, and I studied abroad in Christchurch, New Zealand. I chose to pursue a global experience to gain a broader perspective on public health, particularly in how different countries approach health promotion and policy. Beyond academics, I also wanted to challenge myself by gaining independence, stepping out of my comfort zone, and making new memories in a completely new country.

Describe your initial thoughts and feelings as you prepared to study or intern abroad.

As I prepared for my study abroad experience, I was extremely nervous about traveling internationally. It was my first time traveling outside of North America and I was doing it alone. I was expected to meet a lot of people and immerse myself in a new culture, but I also expected moments of discomfort as I navigated the awkwardness of adjusting to a new environment and forming new friendships. To prepare myself, I took it one day at a time, reminding myself that the anxiety I felt was part of the process. So I tried to channel my nervousness into excitement, focusing on the opportunities ahead.

Share a memorable experience or encounter that immersed you in the local culture.

A memorable experience during my first week in New Zealand was when my program’s orientation included a cultural immersion experience before we began the semester. 

We had the opportunity to eat traditional Māori food, watch a Haka performance, and learn about Māori history before European colonization.

This experience was incredibly valuable because it provided essential cultural and historical context for the place I would be living in for the next four months. It deepened my understanding of New Zealand’s bicultural identity and the continuous efforts to celebrate and preserve Māori traditions.

Discuss your academic or professional experiences abroad. 

The academic environment at University of Canterbury was quite different from what I was used to. The university was much larger than Santa Clara, and there was a wider age range of students in my classes, which created a unique learning dynamic.

A particularly impactful assignment was in my Māori cultural class, where I created my own pepeha, a traditional introduction that shares your connection with the people and places that are important to you. Through this assignment, I reflected on my own heritage and background while also practicing speaking in Māori. Studying aborad in New Zealand taught me valuable life skills. I had to manage my time effectively, navigate a new educational system, and rely on myself in ways I hadn’t before. This experience helped me recognize my strengths as both a student and an individual, reinforcing my independence and resilience.

Reflect on the personal growth and development you experienced during your time abroad.

Living in a different cultural and social environment challenged me to reflect on my own identity and aspirations. I gained a deeper appreciation for the accessibility of my own culture back in the United States through food, language and traditions, while also valuing New Zealand’s bicultural dynamic. My experience with culturally responsive health education further reinforced my commitment to working in diverse communities and advocating for social justice and equitable health outcomes. I also learned how to be open to new challenges with curiosity rather than fear. There was a mutual curiosity between myself and the people I met, which made it easier to form connections. Instead of feeling isolated in a new country, I found ways to bridge cultural differences through shared experiences and open-mindedness.

Describe the friendships and connections you formed with both local residents and fellow students.

The friendships and connections I made were definitely one of the most rewarding aspects of studying abroad. Although socializing in my classes was challenging, I formed connections with both local students and students in my program. My friendships with local students helped me experience New Zealand’s culture outside of the classroom and immerse myself in Polynesian culture, which was new to me. At the same time, my study abroad peers and staff provided me a sense of familiarity and support. Together, we explored our new home. These friendships made my experience much more meaningful, and I hope to maintain them.

Share a story about a challenge or obstacle you faced while studying or interning abroad and how you overcame it.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was adjusting to the different academic system and expectations. The grading system and course structure in New Zealand were different from what I was used to, and I struggled to adapt at the start of the semester. Unlike at SCU, where there are frequent assignments and participation is a big component, many of my courses relied heavily on independent study and only a few major assessments. I overcame this challenge by seeking clarification from others, actively working on my time management skills, and adjusting my study habits. Through this experience, I learned to be more adaptable and proactive in my education.

How has studying or interning abroad influenced your career goals, worldview, or future aspirations?

Studying abroad has had a lasting impact on me, both personally and professionally. Academically, it expanded my understanding of global public health approaches, especially in the context of Indigenous health and culturally responsive health promotion. On a personal level, it strengthened my independence, resilience, and adaptability. This experience has also influenced my career aspirations. I want to continue working in diverse and cross-cultural settings in public health and advocacy. My time abroad reinforced the importance of cultural competency in our health system, and I hope to incorporate these lessons into my future career.