Tuesday, 24 March 2015

An International PGDipGIS Student



My name is Sanky Meng and I’m from Hohhot, China. I will soon graduate with a PostgraduateDiploma in Geographic Information Sciences (PGDipGIS) from Victoria University of Wellington. Before I came to New Zealand for this program, I had a few worries about studying and living in New Zealand. English is particularly difficult for Chinese students, and the education system and cultures are totally different. 

It’s true that at the start, it wasn’t easy. However, I got a lot of help from the lecturers and my classmates, in both my studies and with any problems with language. For example, Andrew Rae, the GIS Technician often supported me to solve problems and answered my questions in the computer labs. Having spent a lot of time in our GIS lab, I had many discussions about assignments and GIS. I generally chatted about GIS and life with my classmates and with their help improved my English along the way!  Without their help and friendship, I wouldn't have been able to integrate into this new environment so quickly.

I chose to specialize in GIS because of Google Earth which attracted me to the field. Being the kind of person who is interested in new technologies, I took a bachelor degree of Geography Information Systems in Beijing. I enjoy studying GIS and think it's a great field to be in.

The MGIS program gave me plenty of professional GIS knowledge across both theory and practical applications, such as programming skills, advanced spatial analysis, and GIS in conservation. I am very fortunate to be able to study in New Zealand. This is such a beautiful country and the locals are very kind and friendly.


After one year of studying, my English has improved significantly and study at Victoria University has highly increased my GIS knowledge and has broadened my outlook on life. I have now built up my skills and confidence and look forward to working in the GIS industry.

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