For many years, One Tree Hill College has proudly upheld a tradition of facilitating international students at our school to further their education in an English-speaking environment. This is not only beneficial to our school fiscally but also benefits our students as they gain a wider view of the world. As well as full year students, the college also offers an international program with students from many countries which allows these international students to be educated and immersed in foreign culture for one New Zealand school term (roughly 10 weeks). This experience broadens perspectives and provides an enriching, one-of-a-kind, unique learning experience. Ms. McMurray, the overseer of the International Student Facility, allowed a brief glimpse into why the international students chose One Tree Hill College over others. "Over the years, OTHC has gained a reputation as a happy, safe environment for international students to further their education. They also make lifelong friendships with their host families and many families visit the international students in their home country." Year 10 international student, Rio Yamaguchi, hailing from Kansai University Junior Highschool in Osaka, Japan, initially participated in the program to seize the rare opportunity of studying abroad in a foreign, well natured country. Rio Yamaguchi stated, “I found the school had more freedom than my last school, and the teachers are more friendly." She also found it was easy to make friends as the school's welcoming environment encouraged her to talk with her peers.

Year 10 student, Shunta Yoshizaki, hailing from Tokyo City University Junior and Senior Highschool in Tokyo, Japan, responded when asked his opinion of how schools in Japan differ from that of New Zealand, "I knew that I had come to a foreign place because it was so different to Japan. The buildings in Tokyo are so very high but here they are not that high. So, it feels very different." In regard to the difficulties of making new friends, Shunta replied, "For me, it was not difficult." If the chance to return to us here at OTHC was offered, both students enthusiastically agreed that they would want to return for another New Zealand school term. Principal Mr Coughlan is very enthusiastic about the international programme saying, "International students play an important role in the culture of the college. Welcoming new students from other countries allows us to enrich our understanding of other people, places and cultures. When visiting groups come to One Tree Hill College, I know that our students love the opportunity to be 'buddies' and connect and learn. I also know that our visitors love their experiences and often don't want to go.”

KARRICE LIM - NEWS MEDIA TEAM