Pearly Chai

You’ve been at UC for a few years now, earning your Bachelor’s degree and continuing with a Master’s. How have you found it?

UC is a really chill place. From an environment perspective, I find it very easy to study here because the people are relaxed and it’s a bit of a slower pace. It’s a good place to study because it’s not like other big cities where it’s a frantic, rushed pace of life, so you can focus on your studies. We’ve also got lots of international events that happen on campus, which is really refreshing to meet lots of people from different backgrounds and different cultures. 

What do you like most about UC?

I like the fact that UC’s campus is all in one place and the facilities are really accessible, like the academic buildings, cafes, restaurants, and more. Everything is close-knit. I’ve seen other campuses where the faculties and different departments are all very distant from each other, but here it’s easy to meet up with friends studying different degrees. 

What do you like about your studies?

I like that I get to focus on my interests, especially the specific fields of international law, like international criminal law. The lecturers and the professors have been very supportive in helping me learn and understand. Classes are small, so it’s a comfortable environment to have open discussions. I got great insight into New Zealand politics from a class field trip to Wellington where we got to meet some key ministers and MPs, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs. It’s a big privilege to get to meet them, especially as a student that’s not from New Zealand. 

What is the support like for international students?

One of the key things is the help UC’s international team offers with visas and navigating that process. That’s one of the most important things international students should have a good understanding of because it can be very complex. In terms of academic support, I found a lot of support from clubs like UC’s Law Students’ Society and the Asian Law Students’ Society. They offer tutorials and mentors that give you pointers and tips for upcoming exams, and they have alumni and guest speakers come talk to students. I find it really helpful. 

How do you find life in Christchurch?

Compared to my hometown of Kuala Lumpur, life in Christchurch is slower and more laidback. It’s quieter here, but you get used to it and I think it’s very good for students. There’s a great work-life balance, and I would say that Christchurch is a perfect balance between New Zealand’s other cities. I like that you’re so close to both tramping trails and the beach, and you can just go out any time and take a break from studying.

Are you involved in any clubs and what do you enjoy about them?

In addition to the law clubs, I’m also involved in Thursdays in Black UC and a lot of the cultural clubs. They cover so many different countries and they have great events, like the international ball. I also enjoy going to the international food festivals because you get to try lots of different cuisines. These clubs and events are great ways to meet people from so many different backgrounds and cultures, and you tend to make really good friends.

Have you taken part in any internships at UC?

As part of my studies, I did a semester-long internship with the Christchurch City Council. I got to put into practice and apply what I’d learned in class. We summarised bill proposals, went through different policies, drafted legal documents, and helped the client with certain issues. My favourite part was getting to sit in council meetings and hear them discuss public law issues. I really enjoyed it. It gave me great insight into what work is like for someone in the legal field and helped give me an idea of what my job after graduation could be like. It was very eye opening!

Would you recommend UC to other international students?

Yes, definitely! It’s a great environment to study in. There’s enough to do so that you can have a balanced lifestyle and not get bored, but you can also easily keep your focus on your studies.