Today I started my PhD. It is Friday 1st February 2019.
It still feels quite surreal… I have wanted to get a PhD since I was 15 years old. I heard that it was the only way to get paid to study insects…
I have had a few years of break from being a student, I am quite nervous with feelings of imposter syndrome slapping me in the face. I found out I was dyslexic after my masters degree, so I am intrigued to see how the dyslexia coping mechanisms are going to work/crash during this time!
Not only that, I have just been in New Zealand for a mere 2 weeks. Its my first time here and I have moved here for a long time, my degree should take a minimum of 3 years (with funding)
So far, the weather has been so hot and sweaty! Its so nice, slowly meeting everyone and making friends. I am very optimistic and excited about the journey ahead!
Kiwi cows, watch out. I’m coming for your shit!
Here are a few photos of my journey so far.
I started my PhD!
Flying into Auckland International Airport from Brisbane! 
The Waikato River 
Trolley’s are called trundlers?! 
The Waikato River Path 
A tree weta visitor at the Air BnB I was staying at when I first arrived. Cook Street! 
Very bizarre to see European trees in a subtropical latitude. Some of them are HUGE and even have epiphytes! 
One of Waikato University’s Lakes on Campus 
The Fernery on Campus. A nice collection of native species. 
Student ID Card! 
Helping Nige collect some samples 
Kiwis on gold coins! 
And the queen….!! 
Science Building. Weather is so bright and lovely!!! 
The Library. 
My Desk 
University of Waikato
