Juhee Park

Why did you decide to come to UC?

I wanted to go to university overseas and I found that New Zealand is a great place for work-life balance. In Korea, university is all about study and focusing on your grades, with little emphasis on self-improvement. In New Zealand, they place importance on studying, but also on doing things outside of class that help your personal growth. When UC started offering the Bachelor of Digital Screen programme, I knew it was the place for me because I could pursue my passion for film and digital media.

How has your time at UC been? 

Learning here is flexible and convenient; if I miss a lecture, I can watch it online. It’s great to know that you have a backup if you miss a class. Student life at UC is a lot of fun, and you have lots of free time that you can use to focus on things that you like. I’ve found a lot of great friends here. People are very friendly and they will come up to you and introduce themselves, which is especially great because I’m very shy.

What do you like about your degree and major? 

I’m majoring in Cinematic Arts. In one of my courses, we get to create our own games, 2D characters, and 3D models, so we’re learning how to use a range of different software programs. I love that I get to try out all these new things. I’m learning a lot and it can be challenging at times, but I’m also having so much fun. It’s even become a hobby I pursue in my spare time. I’m looking forward to next year when we get to start using the state-of-the-art facilities like the green screen and stop motion.

How do you find life in New Zealand? 

In Korea, everything moves fast! Things move slower in New Zealand, so you can take your time and enjoy things more. When I first came here, I was worried about speaking English because I’m a little slow, but people are very kind and patient. They help me out and wait for me to finish my sentences. I really fell in love with this country!

What do you get up to when you are not studying? 

I love nature, so I enjoy hiking, exploring Christchurch, and taking photos. Since I’m learning videography in my degree, I decided to try out photography too. I use those skills to show my family in Korea what my life is like here by sending them videos. I also play badminton every night, and I represent UC in the National Tertiary Badminton Championship. I’ve met a lot of people and made great friends through badminton. 

Why is Christchurch a good place to study from a career development perspective? 

Christchurch is surrounded by beautiful, diverse scenery. It inspired me to study the Bachelor of Digital Screen and pursue a career in photography and videography. My dream is to be on the crew of National Geographic because I love showing people what other countries are like. There’s a lot of opportunity to follow that path here. 

Do you work part-time while studying?

I’m coaching badminton part-time to earn some money for my hobbies and help take some responsibility off my parents. I started off volunteering, but as time went by I improved a lot and people began asking if they could pay me to coach them or their kids. It’s a great opportunity for me to gain experience while teaching others, and it teaches me discipline and time management.

Would you recommend UC to other international students? 

Definitely. I feel love from the people here. They’re willing to help you when you’re struggling, and they’ll approach you first – which is great if you’re shy like me. I feel like I’ve grown a lot. I’ve noticed how much I’ve changed, how I’m more mature. New Zealand is my comfort place, and it’s helped me turn out really well. I love UC!