Good on You, Mate!

2025

In Good on You, Mate! Sandeep Sharma takes readers on a heartfelt and insightful journey from Mumbai to Christchurch, offering an authentic account of life as an international student in New Zealand. Blending memoir with practical guidance, the book captures the excitement, challenges, and cultural adjustments of studying abroad, while providing invaluable lessons for future students.

Sandeep’s story begins with the spark of inspiration to study overseas, leading to an intricate web of decisions, navigating education fairs, dealing with agents, and facing visa hurdles. His initial plan to study in Canada takes an unexpected turn, ultimately landing him in Christchurch at the University of Canterbury. What follows is a deeply personal narrative filled with resilience, adaptation, and self-discovery.

More than just a student memoir, Good on You, Mate! serves as an essential guide for aspiring international students, shedding light on the realities of academic life abroad, the importance of networking, and the often-overlooked value of embracing new cultures. Through engaging storytelling, the book explores themes of independence, career growth, and the long-term benefits of studying overseas, while also offering practical insights into internships, financial planning, and post-study work opportunities.

With a touch of humour and a wealth of first-hand experience, Good on You, Mate! is both an inspiring read and a roadmap for anyone considering education beyond their home country.