Majed won a six-week English course in New Zealand in Education New Zealand’s #YourSummerinNZ competition. He chose Auckland as his destination city and Languages International as his school because he had “heard it was the best.”

Majed already had a background in English because he had studied English for a year at a school in Saudi Arabia before starting his diploma in Human Resources, which is taught in English. However, just four weeks into his course at Languages International Majed says “it has already made a big difference to my English. It’s better studying English here because everything is in English and you learn faster.”

He continues, “Languages International is a very good school. The teachers are very good and explain everything really well. The facilities are fantastic, there are good activities, and friendly students. One of the best things about the school is that there are many nationalities.”

Majed in class

Majed at Languages International

Majed now has friends from places as diverse as Korea, Colombia, Japan, Brazil, Thailand and Taiwan, among others. “I wish I could study here a long time, but I can’t because I have to go back to Saudi Arabia to finish my diploma.” he says.

Majed thinks Auckland is the perfect place to learn English because of the, “lovely, friendly people. You can improve your English because you can meet many people. It is beautiful. There are many places for activities, and many places for my culture, like Arab restaurants.” Above all, he likes New Zealand because it is safe. In fact, Majed likes Auckland so much he is now planning to return to Auckland to complete a Bachelor’s degree.

Majed with his homestay family

Majed with his homestay family

Majed is staying with a host family during his English course. It is a great opportunity for him to experience New Zealand culture and practice his English, especially in the evening when the family sits around the dinner table to eat and chat. “The family is very friendly and my host mother cooks us beautiful food.”

Majed at Western Springs Park in Auckland

Majed at Western Springs Park

As well as improving his English, Majed has gained a lot of life experience. This is the first time he has traveled outside of Saudi Arabia, and he is very enthusiastic about the opportunities he has had to meet people from so many different cultures.

Majed’s advice for other people thinking of going abroad to learn English is “you should go to New Zealand. It’s safe, the people are lovely, and you can learn fast. And, come to Languages International! I really like it here!”

Majed at Hobbiton

Majed at Hobbiton

Author: Hannah Robinson