Shivoy Dudeja

Born and brought-up in New Delhi, with a population that’s six times that of New Zealand, Shivoy Dudeja wanted to study abroad in a country that was less populated and more peaceful.

“My dad has contacts in Canada, USA, UK and Australia so I could have gone to study in any of those countries but, after doing some online research, I chose New Zealand,” says Shivoy.

Being good with numbers, he was looking for a university that had a great reputation in business studies. He applied for the top three in New Zealand and chose the University of Waikato because of the ranking of the Waikato Management School.

“The smaller class sizes attracted me to Waikato. I get more time with my lecturers, which enhances my learning. All my lecturers know me by name and are always happy to help and answer questions.”

Shivoy chose to study a Bachelor of Business majoring in Finance and Accounting at the recently opened Tauranga campus.

He says the support services were invaluable during his first year of study and he appreciated the student learning advisors who helped him with assignment advice, proofreading and referencing.

Shivoy quickly immersed himself in university life. When not working or studying, he enjoyed playing volleyball or snooker, going to the gym, and socialising with friends.

“The Waikato Students’ Union works hard to bring events to the Tauranga campus. I attended the first ever Student Ball and won a prize for best dressed,” he says.

It’s safe to say Shivoy believes he made a great choice by studying in the Bay of Plenty.

“I love going to Mount Maunganui and enjoy walking up the mountain. It’s beautiful up there, especially at night.”

Along with checking out the local sights, Shivoy has explored a bit of New Zealand too. Travelling to the South Island was a highlight – he visited Christchurch, Queenstown and the “most amazing place ever”, Milford Sound.

Shivoy’s top tip to other international students coming to study at the University of Waikato is to be open-minded, approachable and get involved in campus life.

“It’s not hard to make friends here so put yourself out there!”