Debesh Shankhi

Why did you choose to come to UC? 

I did quite a bit of research and New Zealand stood out for its peaceful lifestyle, safe environment, and welcoming vibe for international students. UC ticked a lot of boxes for me, including a beautiful campus that is calm, green, and refreshing – a total contrast to the busy and noisy streets of Kathmandu.

What is the education like at UC?

The education here at UC is very practical and case-based, which is a refreshing change from the theory and memorisation-focused style back in Nepal. I enjoy the way that group projects, open book exams, and workshops push us to apply concepts in real world scenarios and help us develop teamwork and communication skills. It makes learning feel more alive and connected to what I will be doing in the future, which keeps things fun and meaningful.

What do you like about your degree and major at UC? 

The MBIS bridges my technical background in computer engineering and design with the business side of things, which I always wanted to explore. The flexibility to pick courses across business, data, research, psychology, and more has been perfect for someone like me who enjoys trying new things and learning from different perspectives. Plus, the internship opportunity MBIS provides was a big draw because it gives me the chance to gain real industry and work experience in New Zealand.

Are there any support programmes or initiatives that you found particularly helpful?

The Academic Skills Centre workshops have been helpful for adjusting to the different study style here, which has much more emphasis on self-study. Whether it’s writing, referencing, or making sense of assignments, there is a workshop to help. Additionally, UC Careers has also been a great support for CVs and general career advice, and the course coordinators are always open to guiding students with course choices. Having all these resources has made the journey a lot smoother and gives me confidence to enjoy the ride.

How do you find life in Christchurch?

Life in Christchurch is very calm and laid-back, with a friendly, close-knit community vibe that makes it easy to feel at home. I love how there’s always a nearby park or library to relax in. And, because it’s in the South Island, you get to enjoy incredible sightseeing spots within just a short drive. There are always events going on as well, so it’s a perfect place to enjoy a mix of everyday calm and spontaneous adventures.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities on campus?

While I’m not tied to any one club, I love participating in different events: whether it’s an investment workshop, a casual chess game, or just coffee with other postgrads. It keeps things fun, gives me a change of pace, and most importantly lets me meet lots of people from different backgrounds. For someone like me who enjoys trying new things, UC’s wide range of clubs has been the perfect way to stay engaged and keep learning outside the lecture hall.

How well do you think your degree is preparing you for your future career? 

The case-based assignments and exams at UC mean I’m not just learning theory but also how to apply it, which feels directly connected to real-world work. I push myself to work with different people on group projects each course, which has really sharpened my teamwork and communication skills. The internship or applied industry project will strengthen my skills further, which will make me feel more than prepared for my future career.

Do you work part-time while studying?

I work part-time as a customer service representative, which gives me a refreshing break from studies and a chance to engage with people in the city. The role has boosted my confidence, communication, and accountability, which are all transferrable skills that are immensely valuable. What I enjoy most about the role is that I get to learn about the people living here, their experiences, and the culture they represent, making me feel like I am part of the community.

Would you recommend UC to other international students?

Absolutely. The friendly people, calm atmosphere, readily available academic and personal support, wide range of clubs, and practical courses all create a warm, enjoyable environment, even being new to everything. You feel like you are being welcomed here with open arms.