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Rachel Schaal-Wilson
Semester/Year: Spring 2008
Learning about "Kiwis" and the Maori people
I felt both nervous and excited in anticipation of my
semester abroad in New Zealand. The anxiety quieted as I met new
people and settled into the new experience.
In such a Westernized, predominately English-speaking region
of the world, I felt some immediate comfort. In New Zealand
where my physical appearance blends in, the only way most people
are able to tell I am a foreigner is when I speak and they hear
an American accent. There is also the typical tourist-like
behavior; stopping to look at maps on every corner and snapping
photos at every opportunity.
My greatest experiences so far are in my living accommodation
in international housing. I live with 62 other students with
varying backgrounds. Other than the one "Kiwi" born in New
Zealand, the hall is comprised of people born around the world
ranging from Somalia to China.
The majority of my new acquaintances in the residential hall
are Muslim. I met one student named Hussain who was quick to
make a defensive remark about his name upon introduction, "Don't
worry, I don't have any bombs on me." I find it sad when people
feel the need to act defensively or apologize for their
background or heritage, but I have come to understand some of
their motives for doing so.
When I first arrived, I knew I faced some unpleasant,
negative responses from people regarding my native country
because the United States is not popular in the world at
present. Some people cringe when I say I am from the United
States. Other people mention certain stereotypes based on
limited contact, rumors and personal experiences with Americans.
I received an almost-fearful cringe from my Muslim flatmate
from Malaysia, who later warmed up to me once we got to know one
another. Another friend from South Korea said, "I thought all
Americans liked to drink a lot," when I discussed my lack of
interest in the drinking scene.
At first, I actually considered pretending to be Canadian.
Then, I realized that pretending would not change who I am or
the way people view Americans. Instead, I decided to try to
positively represent our country, almost like an ambassador of
sorts. I can share why I am proud of my country and still
rationally discuss those aspects I dislike.
I have began to learn about the Maori culture from my classes
and personal experiences. Most modern people of Maori descent
have some European blood, primarily Scottish, Irish or British
ancestry. Thus, my only genuine experience of Maori culture was
a presentation in a traditional village created for the purpose
of educating people about the Maori people and their history.
I decided to take classes here that I would not be able to
take at UNC Asheville and that would enhance my cultural
understanding of New Zealand. I am enrolled in a Maori language
class to learn some about the indigenous language of New Zealand
and a Treaty of Waitangi class, in which I have become aware of
the controversial and conflicted relationship between the
British and Maori. I have learned so much since I've been in New
Zealand, both inside and outside the classroom.
I try to get out and explore the beautiful campus and scenery
as much as possible, watch sunrises and sunsets and swim in the
river on the warm days. I sheared a sheep within the first week,
an experience I had placed on my must do list since sheep are a
big deal here (10 sheep per person). The semester just began, so
I have three months left to look forward to new experiences and
adventures.
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