Exchange students graduate with a ‘BAM!’

Doris Lu He, Yutong Xiang and Kexin Yan are exchange students from China completing their final semester of study at NMIT Te Pūkenga to receive double degrees in Arts and Media(external link) and Visual Communication.

They are all looking at further education, either in Australia or New Zealand next year.

Kexin Yan will head to Australia to begin a master's degree in creative design. Joining her will be Yutong Xiang, who will focus on a future as an art curator. Doris however will remain in New Zealand and work towards a master’s degree in fine arts.

“I want to stay in New Zealand,” Doris says, “I want to create my own studio and work for myself.”

All three women mentioned how much work they have put into their projects since arriving in New Zealand.

“It’s been really busy,” says Yutong, “but I’ve made friends and it’s nice here.”

For those that are considering a Bachelor of Arts and Media at NMIT, Kexin has a word of advice.

“Be prepared,” she says, “it’s hard work.”

There have been some fun times too, with SANITI (student association) taking both Kexin and Doris over to Golden Bay one weekend to see some of the sights of Te Tauihu.

“This has been one of my favourite memories so far,” says Doris, “the beaches are so beautiful.”

The mid-year Bachelor of Arts and Media exhibition runs 22-27 June, opening at 5.45pm Thursday 22 June.

The opening event will include drinks and nibbles and music ākonga (students) providing gentle background music.

For more information about our arts programmes, visit our website(external link).