Access and Opportunities for International Students

As the International Student Ambassador of Queen Margaret College and a member of the international student community, I have observed and reflected upon the differences between studying in my home country and here at QMC. It is evident that QMC places a strong emphasis on academic achievement, practicality, and physical activity, which are highly valued by students. However, some international students may face barriers in fully accessing these opportunities and pursuing success.

QMC offers a wide range of opportunities for students who prioritise these values. For instance, in my home country of China, academic success was the primary focus for students, often neglecting extra-curricular activities such as sports. Through conversations with other international students from diverse backgrounds, I have realised the various perspectives on this issue. A Korean student mentioned that she was unable to play volleyball due to her school's excessive focus on academics. However, she feels fortunate to be at QMC, where there are ample opportunities for sports and physical activity. This allows students to enhance their skills and pursue their passions.

Another student from Thailand expressed appreciation for the emphasis on cultural diversity at QMC. This includes not only international cultures but also the indigenous Māori culture. This inclusivity provides all students with the chance to experience diversity and learn to respect different cultures. Similarly, a student from the United Kingdom commended QMC for its small class sizes. These smaller classes create a personalised learning environment that can help identify and address learning difficulties, supporting students in achieving their academic goals.

Inclusivity is a key feature of QMC, as shown by the catering team's provision of diverse meals from various countries. These meals include local New Zealand cuisine, Korean chicken, sushi, dumplings, Thai curry, and Pad Thai. This initiative allows students to savour the flavours of their homeland, while also exposing domestic students to cuisine from other cultures.

Amy Zhao