The exact definition of Oceania is a bit vague, with some using the term to refer to the islands of the South Pacific, while others include New Zealand and Australia as well. High school programs in Australia and New Zealand are well-known and very popular, but there are programs available in the lesser known islands as well.
Australia is the world’s smallest continent, the sixth-largest country by total area, and a giant death trap (okay, maybe that is an exaggeration). Everything in Australia can kill you: crocodiles, poisonous snakes, venomous spiders, and I wouldn’t trust kangaroos either, but it’s a perfect location for fearless high school students looking for an international adventure (and, we may be exaggerating a tad). Like most countries and islands in Oceania, Australia is full of contrasts, including tropical rainforests, mountain ranges, miles and miles of desert, and the Great Barrier reef, the world’s largest coral reef system whose reputation precedes it. Students interested in wildlife conservation, environmental sustainability, and adventure with a capital A, will love high school programs in Australia.
New Zealand. Students looking for an adventure should look no further than high school programs in New Zealand. There’s a reason why adventurers, both real and fictional, are drawn to the islands. Wander the redwood forests of the North Island, then take the ferry across the Cook Strait to explore the golden shores of Abel Tasman National Park, or swim with dolphins in Kaikoura. High School students will have the opportunity to learn about New Zealand’s legendary origin story and the Maori people, who will welcome you onto their Marae with a Powhiri (welcoming ceremony), a warm Kia ora (hello/be well), and a hongi, the traditional Maori greeting where you press your foreheads and noses together. Cultural exchange is the cornerstone of any high school program in New Zealand.
Fiji. The Fiji islands are one of the top tourist attractions in the South Pacific. The (literally) hundreds of islands in this isolated archipelago contain dozens of world class beach resorts, giving students the chance to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the islands, the ocean, and the beaches in between. Some of the best locations for snorkeling, diving, and related water sports can be found in Fiji, but nature isn’t all the Fijian islands have to offer. The locals in Fiji are well known for being some of the friendliest people on Earth. Outsiders are welcomed with open arms and a boisterous “Bula!” (“hello!” or “welcome!”), making Fiji a beautiful, safe, and culturally stimulating destination for a high school programs abroad.
Samoa. For English speaking students, high school programs in Samoa can represent a fascinating blend of strange and familiar. Consisting primarily of two main islands and located roughly halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, Samoans speak both English and their native language, meaning a language barrier is not an issue here. This may be where the similarities end, however, as the native islander culture is alive and well on the islands. An ‘Ava ceremony is one experience that’s not to be missed, with outsiders often welcomed to participate in the ritualistic and community-oriented drinking of a liquid made from the native ‘ava root. High school programs in Samoa tend to center around volunteer work and many are offered on a shorter-term basis, making for a great getaway during short breaks from school.
