Kenett Ponce Photo
Study Abroad Ambassadors Highlight

Kenett Ponce-Zamora in Auckland, New Zealand

Kenett spent the spring semester in Auckland, New Zealand at the University of Auckland. Interested in going far for your semester abroad? Kenett can tell you what to expect from life and travel in New Zealand.

Advice from Kenett’s Ambassador Bio:

I had so much fun! I even joined the club UoA Buddies, where I was connected with a buddy leader and other students that were on exchange, so we could see and learn about Auckland together.

Program Highlight

University of Auckland

Open to many areas of study, students can attend the University of Auckland for a semester or year abroad. The University of Auckland has over 35,000 students, both local and international, giving plenty of opportunity for USC students to meet many people from outside their circle, culture, and university. Students will have a variety of accommodations to choose from, ranging from single rooms in a shared apartment with local and international students, to a small, private studio. All the way in the Southern Hemisphere, students will not only get to know Polynesian, Māori, and New Zealand culture, but also experience a new seasonal calendar. The University of Auckland is in the heart of the city but still can provide the remarkable outdoor and nature-oriented activities New Zealand has to offer, such as exploring islands off the coast through boat tours, outdoor rock climbing, surfing, and many different hikes ranging from relaxing to strenuous. Curious about ‘tramping’ and more outdoor activities? Just as Ambassador Kenett Ponce-Zamora about which islands he explored during his study abroad!  

Kenett says, “My advice for future students [applying to the University of Auckland] is to definitely [reconnect] with nature, even if it’s not your thing, trust me. It’s so beautiful. It feels like you’re in a whole other world when you’re travelling down south to go hiking.

Pre-Recorded Info Sessions

Study Abroad 101 & Program Info Sessions

Not sure where to start? Watch our “Study Abroad 101” video, or browse previously recorded info sessions.

Spring 2026 Photo, Film, and Essay Contest Winners

Congrats to our Spring 2026 winners!

Cultural Engagement: Mehana Paul

MP

Hidden Gems: Anjali Sehra

AS Hidden Gems

Trojans Abroad: Mehana Paul

MP Trojans Abroad

People’s Choice: Arsalan Ghogari

AG London

Film Clip: Honeymay Pathomsak 

HP Maastricht

Writing Contest Winner: Jeremiah Jun

JJ Essay Winner

Getting started?

Here are things to consider when first starting to plan your semester or year abroad.

 

Apply for your passport NOW if you plan to study abroad in 2026! Overseas Studies recommends paying for expedited processing and shipment on all passport applications.

Click here to learn more about how to apply for a new or renewed U.S. passport.

PRE-HEALTH & STEM

Overseas Studies offers a wide range of programs that allow pre-health and STEM students to complete major requirements abroad. Browse some of our recommended programs below and meet with a Study Abroad Advisor today!

Recommended Programs for:

-Data Science

-Environmental Studies

-Math & Applied Math

-Pre-Health

-Viterbi School of Engineering

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