From a young age, I’ve always held a passion for seeing the world. Throughout school, a constant urge soared within me to experience the amazing locations we discussed in lecture. In fact, I never believed I’d be so lucky, yet I can safely say the past two months have exceeded any wish from my curious self.

The moment our group met, excitement and curiosity were intertwined in all of our words, and it only grew from there. Every sight we saw or lecture we completed, whether it be in the labs at University of Victoria or atop the mountainous coastline of Pukerua Bay, further fueled these emotions. From each location, we took in not only the information beautifully presented by our professor, but the scenery itself aided into our education as we saw real world examples and could appreciate the information as more than the words from which it was delivered. The biggest message portrayed was everything is interconnected. Whether it be animal, medicinal, or environmental health, the three tiers of conservational medicine rely on one another to ensure a functional world. This message truly left with each and every one of us. From my own experience, I have left with a newfound passion for my future in veterinary medicine.

Not only did we leave ready to get rolling in the professional world, but we also left with a new piece of identity as the cultural experiences and knowledge we gained will travel with us forever. The Maori way of life, language, and values truly shape New Zealand as they were the founding people and still hold a great presence throughout the country. The language still persists in most locations and guides as well as locals often will converse using both the Maori term and the English term. Our group in particular experienced Mitai where we were fully immersed in the cultural experience of a welcoming ceremony that was once practiced by tribes who either merged or battled. With awe we marveled at the grace and serenity the Maori sang and danced with, as well as savoring every bite of the traditional food we feasted on for dinner. The values the Chief discussed with us showed great respect for the world that surrounds us, and coupled with the beautiful scenery that persists throughout New Zealand, you could see the unspoken respect that has been upheld since their original Maori’s arrival. The parks, whether protected or not, are litter free – the people themselves care and listen to nature’s calling. In my personal experience I have seen nor heard of a place such as New Zealand, which hears the needs of its land and listens.

This program changed me forever, and I am ecstatic to spread the knowledge I’ve learned to others
and infiltrate it within my future educational and medicinal journeys.

Name: Vivian Michaels
Status: Junior
Major: Zoology with a concentration in Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology
Hometown: Manahawkin, New Jersey
Program: Conservation Medicine in New Zealand