Emma, an adventure on the other side of the world: her university exchange in New Zealand
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Faire défiler la pageOpening yourself up to the world, discovering new cultures, and enriching your academic journey are all part of the international mobility experience – a unique opportunity available to students at Institut Lyfe. Each year, many students dare to take the leap, completing international exchanges that offer formative and inspiring immersive experiences.
Take Emma, a student in the 2nd year of the Bachelor’s in International Pastry Management, who chose to travel to New Zealand, to attend the Auckland University of Technology (AUT). She shares her adventure, packed with culinary discoveries, improved English, and the challenges of adapting to a new environment.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Emma Artières and I’m currently in my second year of a Bachelor’s in International Pastry Management at Institut Lyfe. Before joining the school, I obtained a professional baccalaureate in cookery, then I took a gap year before specialising in pastry. I was able to complete several placements that enriched my study path: my first placement was at the Domaine de Fontenille in Lauris, and more recently I had the chance to join the Cheval Blanc hotel in Saint-Barths, an unforgettable experience in a prestigious setting.
Why did you choose Auckland University of Technology and why New Zealand?
I’ve always been driven by a thirst for discovery, the desire to travel, to immerse myself in new cultures and to expand my vision of the world. This curiosity pushed me to grab the opportunity of a university exchange, a unique experience abroad.
Among all the possible destinations, New Zealand stood out as the obvious choice. This fascinating country offers breathtaking landscapes and a captivating cultural heritage, especially the Maori culture, which I found particularly intriguing. In addition, the Auckland University of Technology (AUT), renowned for its academic excellence and innovative educational approach, represented an ideal setting in which to learn and grow.
How did you prepare for your move?
Although I was really eager to go, I did have some worries before setting off, especially around taking classes in English. I knew that following a university course in a foreign language would be a real challenge, but it was this difficulty that motivated me. I was also slightly apprehensive about adapting to a new environment, but my desire to get to know the country and have an unforgettable experience far outweighed that.
What’s life like in New Zealand?
New Zealand immediately won me over with its relaxed atmosphere and the warm welcome from the people here. Life is much calmer than in France, and I quickly noticed how open and caring people are.
As for studying, the education system is very different from the one I experienced in France. At AUT, I have about seven hours of classes per week spread over three days, which gives me time to work on my courses independently. This approach requires greater autonomy and thorough preparation before each class.
Outside of university, I’m lucky enough to be able to explore the country each week. Just a few kilometres from Auckland, the landscapes are breathtaking: idyllic beaches, volcanoes, mountains. Every weekend is a new adventure!
What have you learned in terms of skills, on a human level and about the culture of the country?
Academically, my courses at AUT are largely focused on management and marketing, subjects that I had already encountered at Institut Lyfe. However, doing these classes in an international context and in English gives me a new perspective and enriches my understanding of the management methods applied in New Zealand.
On a human level, this experience is extremely formative. Living abroad forces me to get out of my comfort zone, adapt to a new environment, and interact with people from different cultures on a daily basis. I’ve also had the chance to immerse myself in Maori culture by joining the meetings of the university Maori club every Wednesday. It is a fascinating culture, steeped in respect and connection with nature.
What links are there with your classes in Pastry Management?
For the moment, I haven’t yet started pastry classes at AUT, as they’re scheduled for June. Before coming here, I knew that this semester would not be focused primarily on pastry, but rather on developing my skills in management, English and cultural openness.
That said, I was able to choose the Advanced Professional Desserts course, which will allow me to explore advanced techniques in patisserie. Although I don’t yet know the precise content of the lessons, I was able to visit the laboratories, which are perfectly equipped and adapted to learning.
In the meantime, I’m taking advantage of this experience to enrich my culinary culture in another way. Together with other students, we’re exploring local gastronomy by trying out different establishments and discovering New Zealand and Maori specialities. It’s a great way to feed my curiosity and expand my vision of pastry through other culinary traditions!
Is international mobility a bonus for your professional future?
This experience undoubtedly represents a real asset for my professional future. Living and studying on the other side of the world has enabled me to develop valuable open-mindedness, a better understanding of international cultures, and a notable ability to adapt.
In a sector as dynamic as pastry, which is constantly evolving and fed by influences from all over the world, these skills are essential. This immersion has made me stronger, giving me the confidence to grow in an international environment and consider a career abroad without any qualms.
Beyond academic and professional skills, Emma’s experience in New Zealand has been a true lever for her personal development. Gaining independence, adapting to a new culture, and pushing her limits are all assets that will serve her throughout her career.
Emma is one of the Institut Lyfe students boldly going global, confident that being open to the world is the key to a rich and fulfilling career.