PRACTICUM PROGRAM - Business Academy Aarhus · The Practicum Program is intended ... Hotel &...

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NEW ZEALAND PRACTICUM - OBSERVERSHIP

VOLUNTEER - RANCHSTAY year locations programs

WWW.INTERNEXWORLD.COM

PRACTICUM PROGRAM SUMMARY

• Specialized practicum opportunities based on your goals and university requirements. • Placements either for university or post secondary credit or with non!profit organizations • Tailored around your background and the landscape of local industry in your area. • Always unpaid to ensure we have flexibility of opportunities and control over the content. • Opportunities are meaningful and industry relevant and are not focussed on basic tasks. • The level and content of the opportunity is based on your experience, duration, and education. • Opportunities are available in nearly every industry sector and tasks/projects are flexible.

WHAT IS THE PROGRAM ABOUT? The Practicum Program is intended to supplement education; it is meant to familiarize and acculturate a student or recent graduate to operational business practices in a local business setting. This program is designed to give students and recent graduates the chance to get real!world, hands!on specialized experience in nearly any industry. The quality and level of a placement will depend on university requirements, industry sector, relevant experience/education, the time of year and duration of practicum. Placements involve project work as well as participating in day!to!day operations to see how a local organization functions. Practicums are designed with the individual goals of the participant as well as in accordance with any requirements your university or faculty may have. Practicums are the best possible way for you to put theory learned in school into practice and to broaden ones business network. A practicum is composed of unremunerated (i.e. unpaid) participation in an operational business environment or occupation in order to gain a functional insight into the industry sector and business operations. All practicums are primarily for the benefit of the candidate and designed to give candidates the chance to both observe and participate in operational activities in order to better understand the whole work environment. Most tasks are project based but also include operational activities. WHO ARE THE HOST ORGANIZATIONS? Host organizations may be large or small, in the private or public sector, not!for!profit or commercial; they may be locally, nationally or internationally recognized. They may be small dynamic start!ups or more established firms.... in all cases not only will the landscape of the local industry determine what options are available, but we also want to ensure that hosts are appropriately informed of program objectives and requirements and are able to offer an appropriate opportunity. Organizations that choose to host candidates are carefully screened to ensure they are aware of program objectives, the candidates professional background, and to be sure they have someone that can appropriately supervise. Practicum Host Organizations responsibilities include:

• Ensuring organization staff is aware of objectives, requirements and restrictions of the practicum. • Informing and instructing appropriate staff of the activities, processes and interactions the candidate

is required to participate in and ensuring they have the opportunity to do so. • Ensuring the candidate is engaged in appropriate activities based on the program goals. • Providing ongoing support and feedback concerning the practicum activities. • Based on the candidates final report, provide and evaluation of the practicum upon completion.

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WHAT TYPES OF PRACTICUMS ARE AVAILABLE? Placement Field Min Rec Required Education/Experience Avail CAN NZ CAN NZ Early Childhood Education 4 4 12 none none ! Art & Culture 4 12 16 none 2 yrs. relevant experience ! Event Management 4 8 12 none 1 yr. Event Management ! NGO / Non!Profit 4 4 12 none none ! Office Administration 4 4 12 none none ! Retail/Sales 4 4 12 none none ! Communications 4 4 12 1 yr. PR/media/communications 1 yr. PR/media/communications ! Public Relations 4 4 12 1 yr. PR/media/communications 1 yr. PR/media/communications ! Sports & Recreation 4 4 12 1 yr. marketing/sports preferred 1 yr. marketing/sports preferred ! Hotel & Catering 4 4 12 1 yr. hotel/hospitality 1 yr. hotel/hospitality ! Travel & Tourism 4 4 12 1 yr. hospitality/tourism 1 yr. hospitality/tourism ! Marketing 4 4 12 1 yr. bus. admin./marketing/PR 1 yr. bus. admin./marketing/PR ! Environmental & Wildlife 4 4 12 1 yr. biology/env.preferred 1 yr. biology/env.preferred ! Law 4 8 16 2 yrs. law 2 yrs. law ! Politics 4 8 16 2 yrs. international relations/politics 2 yrs. international relations/politics ! Insurance 4 8 12 1 y yrs. insurance/finance 1 y yrs. insurance/finance ! Import/Export 4 8 12 1 yr. bus. admin./logistics 1 yr. bus. admin./logistics ! Human Resources 4 8 16 1 yr. bus. admin./HR preferred 1 yr. bus. admin./HR preferred ! Market Research 8 8 12 none 1 yr. marketing experience ! Information Technology 4 8 16 3 yrs relevant experience 2 yrs relevant experience ! Web Development / Design 12 8 16 3 yrs relevant experience 2 yrs relevant experience ! Industrial Engineering 12 16 20 2 yrs relevant engineering 2 yrs relevant engineering ! Mechanical Engineering 12 16 20 2 yrs relevant engineering 2 yrs relevant engineering ! Media 12 12 12 2 yrs media/communications 2 yrs media/communications ! Finance 12 12 16 2 yrs finance/economics 2 yrs finance/economics ! Social Work 12 12 12 1 yr. social work/psychology 1 yr. social work/psychology ! Real Estate 12 12 12 1 yr. Real Estate 1 yr. Real Estate ! Logistics 12 12 12 1 yr. bus. admin./logistics 1 yr. bus. admin./logistics ! Veterinarian 12 12 12 3 yrs veterinarian 3 yrs veterinarian ! Civil/Structural Engineering 12 16 20 2 yrs relevant engineering 2 yrs relevant engineering ! Electrical/Mechatronic Eng. 12 16 20 2 yrs relevant engineering 2 yrs relevant engineering ! Graphic Design 12 8 12 2 yrs graphic design 2 yrs graphic design ! Architecture 12 12 12 2 yrs architecture 2 yrs architecture ! Fashion 12 12 16 1 year event management/fashion 1 year event management/fashion ! Education 12 12 12 1 year education/pedagogics 1 year education/pedagogics !

Placement Field = general placement industry or specialization in a particular country Min = minimum number of weeks required for placement Rec = recommended number of weeks required for placement Required Education/Experience = minimum years of relevant experience or education Avail = ✓ means always available ! means limited availability or available only on special request

HOW DOES IT WORK? INTERNeX’s role in the operation of the practicum program is to assist in identifying suitable tasks, ensuring the objectives and process of the program are clear to the candidate and host and to ensure objectives are met. Together with the candidate and host we determine activities the candidate can participate in given the program timeline, objectives of the participant and the possibilities given the operational structure of the host. INTERNeX is responsible for informing all parties of what is to be expected, what kind of activities are engaged in and ensuing all parties are totally clear on the expectations and progress of the Practicum. Of course INTERNeX is also available to assist in resolving issues or concerns as they arise. We ensure our participants will be taken care of from the beginning to the end of the program. We are there to make sure any ongoing issues or concerns can be resolved, whether on your own with our support or by us... usually with our support, issues can easily be resolved, whether this is concerning the projects/tasks,

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access to aspects of he organization, or if something more serious occurs (such as a company bankruptcy or termination of a supervisor). WHAT IS INCLUDED?

• Initial Assessment – via Phone or Skype in home country • Creation of a profile for prospective hosts based on your goals and interests • Professional Resume Revision & Upgrade (may not always be required) • Negotiation of activities with hosts • Host Organization Interview (may not always be required) • Tailor!made practicum placement aligned to the candidates capabilities and objectives • Arrangement of a supervisor within host organization • Assigned INTERNeX Practicum Program Supervisor • Support and guidance throughout the program • Orientation – either face to face or digitally • Feedback and end of Practicum review • INTERNeX Practicum Completion Certificate • Opportunity to receive a reference letter • Opportunity for academic credit – INTERNeX can liaise with university representative where required • Mail!holding service • 24 hour emergency number • numerous events arranged exclusively for program participants with discounted or free participation • Access to our low!cost travel desk and discount travel options • Online social community for participants: Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube

WHAT DO I GET OUT OF IT?

• Participate in local business culture • Learn industry specific business practices • Learn new interaction styles and techniques and how they differ from your own country • Practice language skills (colloquialisms including slang, jargon and euphemisms). • Put theoretical knowledge into practice • Broaden your business network in your industry sector • Get a competitive advantage • Professionalized Language Skills • Industry Knowledge • Improve cross!cultural awareness and cultural sensitivity

WHAT DO I NEED TO PARTICIPATE?

• Must have at least upper intermediate (6/10) English level • Must be available for a telephone/Skype interview • Must be a university/college student (post!secondary education) or recent graduate • Must have valid travel insurance • Must be: Flexible, Professional, Communicative, able to take Initiative

WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED?

• University requirements (if required) • Application form • Program Policies (signed) • Resume (in Word document) • Cover letter (in Word document)

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• Most recent Educational transcripts • 2 references from current or previous employers with company letterhead and signed by the

employer, if no work experience, a character letter from a professor (see samples) • Criminal Record Check (if the practicum requires working with children or seniors) – please ask

participants to give you a copy of their CRC before they submit the original one to the Embassy • Copy of passport (picture page) • 3 pictures in color (hobbies, on vacation, with friends/family) • Any copies of academic/professional certification • A portfolio (only for those applying for a graphic design or architecture practicum)

WHO ARE THE IDEAL PARTICIPANTS? We are looking for people who are mature, patient, easy!going, friendly, attentive, responsible, flexible, outgoing, and good at communicating with others. WILL I HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY BEFORE I ARRIVE? Yes; all positions are secured prior to your arrival. DO I GET PAID? No: Positions are unpaid in order to ensure we have the chance to give you the best possible placement opportunity and that will comply with content and other university requirements. When we look at practicums we are looking mainly at what candidates will be doing for whom and how this is related to their background and their goals and of course the duration of the program..... all of these factors mean that in order for us to be able to assist candiates in securing the best opportunity we look for unpaid practicums. In most cases paid positions are considered “jobs” and unpaid positions are “practicums”. When a host organization pays a salary (or any kind of remuneration), the focus is not on the opportunity but on what the employee can do for them, making it primarily for their benefit and not for that of the participant. We try to ensure all of our practicums create a “win!win” situation where in exchange for the host giving candidates the chance to participate in meaningful activities based on their background they will not need to commit to a salary. Host organizations integrate our candidates into the team and daily operations and often create specialized projects based on personal or university goals and learning objectives. In any paid situation, even if this is minimal, we lose control over the content of the placement, which limits learning potential and breadth and depth of experiences. For an unpaid practicum, we have control over the placement, so we can focus on participants’ objectives and interests. This allows us to tailor!build each placement for each individual. WHAT PERMIT IS REQUIRED? You will need a valid work permit for this program; for Canada this can be either the Working Holiday or International Coop Permit under the International Experience Canada program or the C!50 Registered Charitable Work Permit. For New Zealand if the program is less than 3 months, no permit is required; for durations over 3 months, you can either apply for a Student and Trainee Permit or Working Holiday Permit WHEN CAN I START? Although you can start any time of the year, it is best avoid starting your program near the holiday season (15th Dec!10th January) HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM? You can decide on the duration which can be anywhere from 4!24 weeks. (12!20 weeks recommended). WHERE CAN I GO? Most placements are in Vancouver or Auckland though in some cases placements may be arranged in other

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cities on a case!by!case basis. Placement location within a city is entirely at the discretion of INTERNeX Program Manager. ARE THERE ANY OTHER SERVICES AVAILABLE?

• Language Training • Observership Program • Homestay • Hostel Package incl. breakfast, 1 year hostel membership (worldwide) with various discounts and free

internet minutes • “Meet and Greet” airport transfer • Organizing and booking of trips

WHAT OTHER EXPENSES WILL I HAVE? You will need to have sufficient funds for accommodation, food, public transportation, and spending money. WHEN SHOULD I APPLY?: You should apply a minimum 12 weeks prior to your proposed program start date. Short notice applications MAY be accepted on a case!by!case basis. Applications will be processed only when all required documents are received. Once the applicant is accepted, a letter of confirmation (LOC) will be sent. WHEN WILL I RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION? After the placement is confirmed, placement details will be sent. WHAT CAN I EXPECT? Understanding your expectations is crucial. Practicum Program Participants and hosts need to be absolutely clear that this is not a work experience. Participants will have the chance to participate in and explore different aspects of the host organizations operations and different roles with in the organization. Activities and tasks will mostly be project!related but likely will include some operational day!to!day tasks as well. These may not always be engaging and exciting but are a necessary part of any practicum, but should not comprise more than 20!30% of practicum activities. Practicums are also non!supervisory in nature though candidates will be given some level of responsibility and accountability for the tasks they undertake. Placements are designed for the benefit of the candidates but placements are in real, functioning organizations and due care, an understanding or processes, limitations and protocols as well as a professional attitude are critical. Ultimately this program requires a lot of flexibility and a participant that can adapt to the style, culture, processes and environment of a local organization. WHAT ARE YOUR POLICIES? Placements may be cancelled by the host organization or INTERNeX at any time for CAUSE (which includes but is not limited to any of the following): engaging in activities outside the scope of the practicum misrepresentation of the host or program, demonstrating disruptive or inappropriate behaviour, breaching confidentiality, liability concerns, or any other area for legal recourse. !WHY USE OUR SERVICES? Our entire goal is to maximize the possibility of having a successful practicum. This is not only concerning the placement itself but also your personal experience which includes where you live, what you do in your free time and making sure everything continues to work out. Having the best possible opportunity: In order to secure the best possible opportunity, we have to

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determine your objectives, skills, personality and interests in the context of any university requirements. The more we learn about you, the better we can match you to appropriate organizations. It is our job to inform you what can be expected, what kind of people you will be placed with and what kind environment you will be in. We will give as much information as possible so that you feel as comfortable as possible with the placement opportunity and host. We encourage participants to attempt to secure their own placements, though in our experience we have seen that there are significant risks associated with this doing it completely on your own. Often, what you can find out about a company from a website or by phone is very limited and can be misleading. It is hard to determine what kind of experience they have had with interns in the past (if any), if they are willing and able to offer you appropriate tasks/projects on an ongoing basis, what their work environment/space/culture is like, etc.. With minimal information, the possibility of having a successful practicum is definitely limited. Making sure things continue to work out: You will be taken care of from the beginning to the end of your program. We are there to make sure any ongoing issues or concerns can be resolved, whether on your own with our support; usually issues can easily be resolved, whether this is concerning the projects/tasks you are undertaking, placement conditions, or if something more serious occurs (like a company bankruptcy or your supervisor gets fired). In the worst case we will also assist you in securing an alternative placement if there is sufficient time remaining on your program. In contrast, if you were to organize your own opportunity and something goes wrong, there can be serious implications, not only must you go back to the search process which consumes time, energy and finances, you may lose university accreditation and ultimately the financing of your stay may be lost.

FAQ’s FOR PRACTICUM PROGRAM:

1. What organizations do you work with? Although INTERNeX works with hundreds of companies,

we prefer to not list the specific names of the organizations we work with for a variety of reasons. Our host organizations trust our judgment in sending appropriate candidates to them after we have pre!screened them and found out about the candidates personality, language, educational background, compatibility and interests. Host organizations do not want to receive a lot of unsolicited placement requests due to their relationship with us and since they rely on us concerning the translation of educational certifications and immigration issues.

2. What happens if I really want my placement to be in a specific organization? Though it is possible that we work with the host organization that you have requested, unless you are certain that the host organization is EXACTLY what you are looking for, it is better to work together with INTERNeX to find what you are really looking for based on several factors including their capacity to offer an appropriate project/tasks and supervision.

3. What is the ideal duration of a placement? In our experience, most practicums require a semester (20!24 weeks) to complete. This means you can complete a relevant project for your host organization and have the time you need to develop the relationships and trust you will need to gain all of the information you require.

4. What size of host organization is better to do a placement in? In our experience, the larger the company, the easier it is to get lost in their infrastructure. Though this is not always the case, many large companies are reluctant to offer candidates interesting projects due to inability to effectively manage the projects, internal bureaucracy and corporate liability. Smaller companies allow candidates to become more involved at the level that is required for the completion of your project.

5. What happens after the initial consultation? Once we have confirmed the direction of your

placement, we will then negotiate with host organizations on your behalf to “build” an opportunity

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for you. This will take some time, mainly because we assess our host organizations and placements on numerous factors such as: suitability of the industry/organization/project outline/personnel, timeframe of the placement, personality compatibility, necessary supervision and supervisory capacity/requirements, physical space, time of year, organization internal culture/dynamics, past experiences with the organization, and other factors. If required, we will then arrange a telephone, Skype, or in!person interview with the host organization, following which they will confirm placement. In some instances there may be more than one interview. Your representative or INTERNeX will then forward you the confirmation of placement.

6. What happens the first week after I arrive? You will be required to be at the INTERNeX office at 4:00 pm on the first Monday (or Tuesday if Monday is a holiday) for the Orientation. The Orientation is divided into 2 sections. The first section covers the general arrival information (i.e. about the city, safety, public transit, how to get a cell phone, etc.). The second section covers the specific program information (i.e. your work/practicum placement). It continues with an Interview Workshop in which you can learn about having a successful interview with a host organization (should this be necessary). You will have the chance to join our online social community if you have not already done so, and be introduced to the travel desk, and Public Relations Department. During this week you will also meet with your placement manager to discuss specific issues pertaining to your placement and your host organization.

7. What should I expect when I start my placement? The first week or two is always a challenge… your host organization is getting used to you and you are getting used to them. You will receive a general introduction to the organization on the first day as well as an introduction to the relevant staff and your supervisor, but don’t be afraid to introduce yourself… Remember it will take time for you to build up the necessary trust in order to really get the access you need for your project or practicum. Please document any issues and let your placement manager know what they are. We can assist you with some strategies to successfully complete your project.

8. What do I have to wear to my host organization? Generally your placement manager can advise you on this, however, as a general rule, it is better to be overdressed rather than underdressed until you get familiar with the office. If you have formal meetings with partners or clients or are in a position that will involve exposure to clients or in a traditional office you will be required to wear a suit. One day per week, most companies have a “Casual” day where less formal clothing may be worn. If in doubt, ask the staff or your supervisor.

9. How can I better integrate into the host organization? The organization’s employees have more than likely worked together for months or even years. You are new to their environment, and new to their corporate and regional culture. Take the initiative and speak with them and go to events the company has planned... Even invite them to lunch; or go if they invite you. You will be surprised at how receptive most people are to this.

10. What should I do if I have problems with a particular staff member or supervisor? Give the staff and your supervisor the benefit of the doubt… Maybe it is just your perception. Remember that you are living in another culture and workplace stresses and communication (including body language) are different here. Be aware of this and try to be sure there is a problem. The first step is to discuss the issue with the person directly… if this does not seem like a good option, contact your placement supervisor IMMEDIATELY.

11. How can I get time to speak with my host supervisor? Your supervisor has a job too. More than likely he or she is a manager or in a responsible position that also needs their attention. Talk to other staff or try to do some research on your own… or write down things you have found different in the host organizations environment. Host organizations reward initiative and an easy!going approach.

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You should be patient while your supervisor organizes time in their schedule for you. Your placement manager can also speak with the supervisor in the organization if you have difficulty arranging meeting times.

12. Are all placements the same? Your placement is YOURS. Remember your placement is determined based on a lot of individual factors including industry, organization, your professional background/experience, personality, language level…etc, etc, etc. Each situation and each host organization… just like each person is FUNDAMENTALLY different. We place hundreds of participants each year… and this means we run hundreds of individual programs!

13. How long will it take me to get to the host organization each day? Depending upon your industry choice placements may be anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour (in some cases, more) to commute from your accommodation. Many people commute up to 3 hours per day. Although we try to keep travel time as short as possible, there is the chance that in order to do what you want you will have to commute.

14. What happens if I quit? You MUST contact your placement manager before you decide to cancel your program. The host organization has made arrangements for you which may have cost them substantial time and money. If you don’t fulfill your obligations to their schedule and under the terms of your placement agreement you will not be supported for re!placement nor receive a refund of any fees.

15. What should I do if I want to terminate my placement or change to another company? BEFORE you make any decisions regarding the termination or change of your placement you MUST speak to your placement supervisor at INTERNeX. This means you shouldn’t tell your supervisor in your host organization that you want to terminate or change your placement until you speak with INTERNeX. Usually issues are very easily resolved either with the indirect or in some cases direct involvement of your placement supervisor. INTERNeX is here to assist you but we can’t help if you don’t let us know what is going on. It is far better to resolve the issue with your existing host than to be replaced which may take a number of weeks, and there is no guarantee that the new situation is better. You also MUST have a concrete and well!documented reason to request a change or to prematurely terminate your placement.

16. How can I contact my placement manager? Although we expect a weekly update on the status of your placement, you may also feel free to contact your supervisor by telephone, email, or in person. In fact if there is ANY issue, even issues you feel you can resolve on your own, no matter how small, we require that you contact us to inform us of the situation. Since this program is for mature, independent self!directed individuals, if we don’t hear from you, we assume that everything is going well… We are here to make sure that you are having the best possible experience and to support you when you need our assistance. We won’t know unless you contact us.

17. What are the hours I have to spend in the host organization? Most host organizations are open from 9am until 5pm, and mirror the working week. Organizations do differ and the hours and/or schedule may be more or less depending upon the organization and their industry. If your organization expects you to be present longer then these hours or if you need more time in the organization per day to complete your projects/tasks please contact your placement supervisor after you have discussed the issue directly with your supervisor in the company.

18. How can I get the information I need for my project/tasks? Sometimes this can be difficult, particularly when you are dealing with a different culture and requesting private information about an organization you do not work for. This will take time and confidence which can only be created through mutual trust with the staff and your supervisor. Have patience, be flexible, and build their

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trust. It is important to get the staff’s “buy in” for your project and it is a good idea to explain to them at the earliest opportunity (informally as well as formally) what the benefits to the organization will be by completing your project.

19. How long does it take to get things done? Many organizations that have markets or partners in other cities are dealing with different time zones. This slows a lot of processes down. Also remember that the main people you are dealing with are managers that often have a limited amount of time to devote to your projects. Even other staff has full!time tasks that require their attention. There is a very real feeling that “time is money”, especially in some professions, so you will have to learn how to function in this environment. Be patient and try to collect other information while you wait.

20. What happens if a project I am working on is off schedule? Although it CAN be preferable to have a clear timeline for your project, it is often better for you and the host organization to take a flexible approach. Timelines may often change, and the type and extent of the information available to you may also alter over time as the project evolves. You may also find that items you thought were important when you began the original outline have become less important than other emerging factors and may not fit into the time you have to complete the project. You must be flexible and an acrobatic time/project manager.

21. What about the host company structure? Each host organization is different, and there are a lot of smaller organizations that may not have a tight infrastructure. This is partially due to the way business is done here and our “corporate culture”. Go with the flow, and see if it really is too difficult to deal with. It could just turn out to be another thing you learn from during your placement.

22. What will my tasks be? Although many of your activities and/or projects will be outlined prior to your practicum, often you will be given more responsibilities and tasks/projects as your practicum progresses. In addition to any required tasks/projects from your university, what you do will largely depend on the evolving situation within the host organization and “what comes up”; this is one of he main reasons companies tend to focus heavily on the traits flexibility and initiative for any successful practicum.

23. Where will I do my project/tasks? All host organizations are aware of the requirements of the program and that you will need sufficient space for you to complete your practicum. This however can mean that you may have to use a variety of desks/tables, and maybe even the conference room at times. You may also be required to undertake some of the activities at home or off!site. Generally we prefer that you spend as much time as possible in the organization in order to ensure you can observe all the day!to!day functioning’s of the organization to better complete your project, but this is not always the case since the host may have new employees or their own profit!generation activities they must accommodate first.

24. What should I do if I want to take some time off? This is not normally a problem, but if your placement is 8 weeks or less, you should inform the supervisor of this BEFORE you start your placement. If you are on a placement longer than 8 weeks, you must see if your planned vacation fits into the host organization schedule, and notify your supervisor at least 4 weeks in advance. Also let your placement manager know in case they need to contact you during your absence from work.

25. How can I get a letter of recommendation from my host organization? Under normal circumstances, all participants will get a letter of recommendation from their host organization. The only times where it may not be possible to get one is if you under!performed at the organization or if it is a policy not to issue such letters. You should let your host organization supervisor know that you would like a letter of recommendation at least 2 weeks before you finish your placement. You can also ask other staff if they could write one for you. This is probably the most valuable document that

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you will obtain from your placement so don’t forget to ask!

26. What happens after I finish my practicum? A week before you complete your practicum, you need to contact your placement supervisor and ask for an Practicum Completion Certificate. Before you pick up the certificate from the INTERNeX office, you are required to write a page of testimonial. The testimonial should cover the description of your company, what you have done in the company, your general impression of the whole practicum experience and your feedback.

PRACTICUM TESTIMONIALS: see more http://internexcanada.wordpress.com/category/expose!of!the!week DANIELLE: Germany In March I started a 20 weeks lasting practicum at a chocolate company in Vancouver. During my stay, I was working in the Purchasing department in their Head Office and besides assisting this department in general tasks, I got several projects to work on. My first project pursued the goal to find improvements for the unitization of the packaging material which is held in their warehouse that is located in the same building as the Head Office. I had to take the requests of different people and other determining factors into account like the warehouse employees, suppliers and storage capacities. In another project I was establishing a database of packaging material and another was about collecting information from suppliers concerning the traceability of the ingredients used in production and food!contact items. In general, I learned a lot during my practicum and enjoyed my time there. I had to deal with different people internal as well as with suppliers, could spend time in the warehouse and in the normal office environment. I am really grateful that I could spend this practicum in the city of Vancouver. For me, the city is wonderful with so many friendly people and diverse cultures living here together. But most of all, I loved the nature

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which surrounds Vancouver and wished the summer had started earlier to be able to enjoy the beautiful hikes, parks and beaches even more. Besides, I would like to give positive feedback for INTERNeX. I had the experience that it is quite difficult to find a fitting practicum abroad which is related to my studies in Germany. INTERNeX was able to find one for me and I am sure to take advantage of this back home. But it is also good to always have a contact person in case of any problems occur. Also, the PR interns do a great job organizing so many events for all candidates and it is easy to get to know people who are in the same situation. KLAAS!JAN & DENNIS: The Netherlands Both Klaas!Jan and Dennis study Engineering in The Netherlands and had to do their graduation project together; the host company was one of the world’s top custom fiberglass shipbuilders and Dennis and Klaas!Jan worked on a $30.000.000 yacht.

How did you find INTERNeX International Exchange? Klaas!Jan: In the first instance, we tried to find an practicum ourselves but the response was disappointing, also due to the fact that the requirements from our university where pretty tough. Therefore we decided to engage somebody professional to find us the perfect company where we could work on our graduation project. We decided on INTERNeX because they have a lot of contacts in the engineering industry.

Why did you choose to go to Canada?

Dennis: I actually thought about going to the USA, but it is too difficult to get into the country and find an practicum there, so I went for Canada since it is said to be a beautiful country.

Klaas!Jan: My sister went to Vancouver before and she strongly recommended the city. As you know it is the most livable city in the world! Besides, Australia, which I also considered, doesn’t have a strong engineering market. So I came here, also because I wanted to see bears…!

How did you like your practicum?

Both: It was a great experience! We learned a lot about ship!building and were able to apply our theoretical knowledge to the practical field. But not only that, we could also improve our English and meet a lot of interesting people!

What kind of tasks were you responsible for on a daily basis?

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Dennis: We did not have varying daily tasks because we were only working on our graduation project, a multipurpose door for a yacht that our host company is building at the moment. So, every day we were designing, building, adapting and test!running our prototype.

What do you like most about Vancouver?

Klaas!Jan: We were both pretty impressed by the strength of the YVR community after the riots that happened just after the Vancouver Canucks lost the Stanley Cup Final. The city was a mess after rioters set cars on fire, smashed shop windows and destroyed other people’s property. To see all the Vancouverites clean up the city the day after was a very overwhelming feeling since you might not expect that to happen in Europe where there are also riots from time to time. But the inhabitants stood up for their city and did everything they could to

whitewash their reputation. Their positive energy and love for the city is what I like very much!

Dennis: In addition to that, Vancouver just hits you with this WOW!!Effect wherever you go. You have the mountains in the North, parks and beaches in the West, Chinatown in the east and a great downtown district. Vancouver gives you everything you need, and especially in summer the city shows itself at its best so we are actually a little sad to be heading home now, that summer just started.

Where have you been in and around Vancouver?

Klaas!Jan: We went to Whistler and the Rocky Mountains, both together with INTERNeX. We could also tick Vancouver Island, Stanley Park, Grouse Mountain and other sites on our list.

What was the most memorable thing you did in Canada?

Dennis: After a party I stayed at a friend’s place. The following morning I got on the Skyrain to get back home and I fell asleep…When I woke up I found myself back at the same station where I boarded the Skytrain. So I went one whole round without waking up! Haha!

Klaas!Jan: To me, the best experience was the Rocky Mountains trip with INTERNeX. It was a lot of fun and I met so many nice new people which is something I really appreciate. INTERNeX brings people from all nationalities together! It increased my cultural awareness, I felt comfortable right away and I made a lot of friends!

Let’s sum it up: What was the best thing about your practicum in Canada?

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Both: That we could apply our theoretical knowledge to a tangible project which will be of value and used by Richmond Yachts.

And what was the worst thing?

Dennis: The tight budget I had to live on. Vancouver is a quite expensive city…

What is the first thing you will do back home in The Netherlands?

Dennis: Drive a car, meet up with my friends and drink some cheep beer!

Klaas!Jan: I am looking forward to see my family, my friends and my girlfriend again.

Would you recommend INTERNeX International Exchange?

Both: YES!!!

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KATHRYN: Germany

Recently I was offered the opportunity to do a practicum at one of New Zealand’s biggest radio stations in Auckland.

After arriving and getting along in this big city on the other side of the world, I started my four months internship. I was introduced to everyone at the station especially to the staff I was working with in this period of time. I noticed directly that the working atmosphere was very relaxed and because of that it was fun to work there.

My tasks were diverse. I worked mainly with the stations online editor who also is originally from Germany. After a while I was responsible for the content of the website. I updated the daily content, wrote some goss stories, created win articles, uploaded photos which I edited first, etc. I also took part in weekly brainstorms and staff meetings which were really interesting. Quite often I was “on streets” with the promotion team as well. We handed out free stuff, did some competitions or a sausage sizzle. Because of the promotional work I’ve seen a lot of Auckland and met a lot of people.

I really liked meeting many famous people like some All Blacks players, Olympic gold medalists or other Kiwi and international celebrities. I was really excited when I met stars like Ellie Goulding and Mumford and Sons. Often my job was to video record or to take photos of them giving interviews. I did a lot of other things that needed to be done as well, therefore it was never getting boring and I was always looking forward to the next day. On my last day at the radio station I was even talking on air for a few minutes, when the breakfast team and I chatted about my time at the station. Time was running so fast ! too fast.

But after my great time at the internship I could finally start my travels around the country. Most of my travelling on the North and South Island I did with the Stray Bus that INTERNeX recommended me and got me a discount

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on which I really liked. That was also an amazing time that I will never forget.

New Zealand is an awesome country. I’ve seen so many amazing landscapes and did a lot of fun things like skydiving, the Nevis Swing, rafting and surfing. I also made a few new friends and I hope to see some of them again in the future.

Thank you, INTERNeX, for your help during my time in Auckland! I will never forget this time.

NICK: Australia

Nick is an Australian from Brisbane and came to Canada to get a change of scenery and experience new places and he admits it helps that it was an English speaking country. He chose Vancouver because has heard great things about how beautiful it is and all of the things to do outdoors.

What kind of practicum are you doing and do you find it useful?

I am an IT intern as a software engineer and work with programming. Since I just graduated from university, I was looking to get some practical experience and I am definitely getting that here, so this practicum is very useful. I have a learned a lot of new things and the work I am doing is really enjoyable.

What kind of tasks are you responsible for on a daily basis?

I am not really assigned daily tasks, but I am given a project to work on. They have me filling in bits and pieces that they normally wouldn’t have time to accomplish. Depending on how long the project takes me I work on that until it is finished and then am assigned a new task.

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What do you like most about Canada and Vancouver?

My favorite things about Vancouver are the Canucks, hockey, the mountains and all of the outdoor activities. Of course it also doesn’t hurt that it is an English speaking country and that Canada is closely related to Australia, both being part of the British Commonwealth. It felt nice coming here and seeing the Queen on the coins, and made it feel a little like home.

What trips did you do in your free time, also organized by INTERNeX?

I went to 2 hockey games and can’t wait for the weather to get warmer so I can go hiking and explore more of what Vancouver has to offer. I went on INTERNeX’s trip to Seattle as well as the trip to the Rockies.

Do you attend the weekly Pub!Night and do you think this is a good way to meet new people?

I have been to 2 PuB NiGHTs organized by INTERNeX and they were a lot of fun. I think it’s a great way to meet new people and hang out with friends.

Why did you choose INTERNeX International Exchange?

I was looking to get away after I had graduated so I ended up learning about INTERNeX through searching Practicum programs on Google. After reading up on the programs and what they have to offer, I decided it was a good fit for me.

What’s the best thing about INTERNeX International Exchange?

For me, the best thing about INTERNeX has been the accommodation and how they helped organize my trip prior to coming to Vancouver. It’s nice how I am living with people in the same situation as me and we have our own little ‘community’, which is really fun to be a part of.

How did you find a place to stay?

INTERNeX helped me find a place to stay. They helped me organize my housing before I had arrived and it provided an ease of mind knowing I had somewhere to stay from the get!go. It was also very helpful when going through immigration; with my accommodation already organized upon arriving in Canada I didn’t receive any hassle.


Yes, I would definitely recommend INTERNeX to others. It made it really easy to meet new people and get set up in a new country through the orientation and all the helpful advice from fellow INTERNeX’ers.

MELANIE: Germany

Melanie is from Germany and enjoyed a very exciting 9!month trip in North America. She started off with a two!month practicum in Vancouver in January and continued to Hawaii to take business English in a language school. She then traveled around BC and will start volunteering at a husky farm. Read what her experiences were in Vancouver and Canada!

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Why did you choose to go to Canada? I wanted to go abroad and have new experiences. I did not think about Canada specifically but it is an English speaking country and I have never been here before, so I decided to go.

What kind of practicum did you do and what where your daily tasks? I interned at a recruiting company that sends English language teachers abroad. My tasks were mainly administrative work and communication with our candidates. I welcomed new teachers who wanted to go abroad and helped them to prepare their documents for the program. I also worked with private language schools, particularly in South Korea.

Is your practicum a part of your university program and is it useful for your career goals? The practicum was just for my own experience, it is not required for university. I think, it will be very useful for my resume. It is always good to have work practice and experience abroad.

What was the best think about your practicum? The best thing was that I improved my English and got used to communication in a foreign language. For example, making telephone calls in English is a challenging thing at first. My colleagues were also very friendly and helpful; it was fun working with them.

What do you like most about Canada and Vancouver? The best thing for me about Canada is the beautiful nature. Vancouver is so nice because it is close to both mountains and the ocean. And I like all the beautiful parks here in the city!

What trips did you do in your free time, were some organized by INTERNeX?

I have been to Seattle and Whistler and did many small trips such as Capilano Suspension Bridge or Stanley and Lighthouse Park. With INTERNeX I went to the Rockies, which was a very memorable trip! We had so much fun and I got to know a lot of nice people. I especially enjoyed the campfire we had, the Banff gondola and the Columbia Icefields! The nature is just stunning.

How did INTERNeX International Exchange help you organize your trip? INTERNeX is a partner of the German organization I used to come to Canada. They helped me to find the practicum and prepared me for interviews. My homestay was also organized by INTERNeX and I had a good time with the family. The help was is very useful in the first weeks abroad.

Would you recommend INTERNeX International Exchange? Yes, I would. It is so much easier to adopt and find your way in a new country if you have help. I found it was very useful to have INTERNeX because it’s very difficult to find an practicum on your own in a country you don’t know. INTERNeX also offers good possibilities to get to know people. RASMUS: Denmark

Rasmus came to Canada to do an practicum, to get new work experience and to improve his English. He stayed for three months, spent one month living in a homestay and two months in a student house. His practicum included doing administrative work in a company that maintains movie rental machines.

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Why did you choose Canada? I had to do an practicum for my university program and could not find anything in Denmark. My school offered me this practicum in Canada, so I went. The Canadian company wanted Danish interns, I applied and was the first candidate from my school. Where have you been in and around Vancouver?

I’ve been all over Vancouver, especially in many parks, like the Stanley Park. We went ice skating in Robson square, which was a lot of fun. I joined INTERNeX PuB NiGHTS, the paintball match or went on trips, for example to the Rocky Mountains. I saw North Vancouver and Seattle as well.

What is the most memorable thing you did in Canada?

The most memorable thing in Canada was a huge house party. Surprisingly, there wasn’t much to clean up, this made it even better.

How did you like your practicum and what kind of tasks were you responsible for on a daily basis?

My practicum was really good. I met a lot of interesting people and had a lot of positive experience in a multicultural team. Usually, I sent out packages, wrote a manual on how to do my job and dealt with franchise laws because it is an important issue in the field I was working in.

Is it related to the study you are doing back home?

Yes, I do marketing at home and there is definitely a connection between my studies and the practicum in Canada.

What was the best thing about your practicum/your stay in Canada?

The best thing was meeting so many interesting people. It was also great to experience working in a Canadian company and to see many different cultures collaborating.

What was the worst thing about your practicum/stay in Canada?

The worst thing about my stay was that I had to leave Canada, Vancouver, and everybody I met during my stay.

What is the first thing you did when you returned back home?

I slept a lot when I got home. Of course I met all my friends but also went to work almost immediately.


Yes, I already did. Since I was the first one to participate in the program from my school, I had to report to my school about my stay in Canada.

PRACTICUM PROGRAM - Business Academy Aarhus · The Practicum Program is intended ... Hotel &...

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