Student Story

At the age of 22, Simco Ypma has already crossed a major item off his bucket list—travelling to New Zealand. Simco is from the city of Hertogenbosch in The Netherlands and is currently at Otago Polytechnic on exchange from his home institution, the Fontys University of Applied Sciences.

“I’ve always wanted to combine traveling and studying if I had the chance,” Simco says. “It is a great opportunity to see a different part of the world, to meet new people, learn new things, improve my English and become more independent.”

Simco was inspired to choose New Zealand because his parents still tell stories about a trip they took thirty years ago. Otago Polytechnic was the ideal match—Dunedin seemed like a great place to live, and the courses match Simco’s interests.

Being a Physical Education teacher is Simco’s ambition, and through the Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health he is taking courses in bioscience, massage, and advanced sport. “The experience has been amazing so far. Study has been a lot of fun and I have learnt a lot, the Polytechnic has been very good with providing support when I needed it.”

Although homesickness has been a challenge, Simco has had a very positive experience with his homestay family.  

“They are amazing people and they have been taking amazing care of me. I have really built a friendship with them and I will be forever grateful for them.” 

International study means new social opportunities, and Simco has gotten stuck in, both coaching and playing football on the weekends. Simco has also taken advantage of the chance to connect with other international learners. 
 
“We do fun things together when we can. In the first term we went to Queenstown and Wanaka with ten students from the international group and that was a lot of fun!” 

Simco has plans to see more of New Zealand after the semester finishes. 

“My girlfriend is coming over and we are going to travel around New Zealand together. After that I will enjoy the end of the summer break in the Netherlands and then I will start my last year of my study to become a PE teacher. 

“I would really encourage everyone study abroad if they have the money and time to do it. It has been amazing to learn so many new things, meet so many new people and visit a beautiful country.”