Rebecca’s Australia Hospitality Internship – Tropical Island

Name: Rebecca

University: University of Ulster

Course: BSc Leisure and Events Management

Heading to: Australia, Whitsundays

For how long: 12 months

Starting: September 2010

Programme: Australia Hospitality Internships

What are you most looking forward to in Australia?

I actually can’t wait to set a foot in Australia and actually be there to know that this all isn’t a dream! I’m really looking forward to meeting lots and lots of new people, discovering new cultures, seeing the sights, doing completely new things and of course learning useful skills while working! The sunshine is always a plus as well, compared to constant drizzle at home!

What do you hope to achieve/ learn on your internship?

I want to learn new skills that are relevant to my university course, and will allow me to go back to final year with greater industry knowledge. I also want to achieve a lot more self confidence and interpersonal skills. I want to be able to know myself that I can go out somewhere new, completely on my own and be determined enough to work hard, be motivated and give 100% to my job.

What do you think this internship/ placement will add to your CV?

I think that future employers will be able to see that I have gained experience in a country far away from my home which will show that I am determined, confident and have the willingness to succeed at what I do. It will show that I am able to adapt quickly to become an effective team member. It will also show that I have a wide range of experience of working in many different environments. I already have experience back home, so an international placement will further my CV and will be more appealing to employers.

Why are you travelling to Australia for your internship?

I want to prove to myself I can go away for a year and be totally independent, and if there was anywhere in the world I would want to work and live for a year, it would be Australia, I think the TV adverts shown in the UK totally sell it to you, as they say “there’s nothing like Australia”. A couple of my friends have also worked in Australia for a year and the hundreds of stories they have told me about it has made me more determined to do my placement there. The Aussies are laidback which fits in perfectly with my lifestyle (when I’m not working obviously!). And of course I love my water sports so where else can you do them all year round without having to worry about the weather. Do you need anymore reasons?

How jealous do you think your friends are going to be?

My friends are very jealous, but fully supportive of me going away and I know they will stay in contact with me to find out all the gossip! I know that many of them won’t have the opportunity to do a placement so far away so I’m extremely lucky for the opportunity. I also know that my family is just as jealous, but it seems to give them an excuse to want to try and visit! However I will insure that I do everything I can while I’m away to keep them all constantly jealous by completely living the dream down under!

If you’re interested in working on an Australian tropical island for your university internship or as a graduate click through to the Australia Hospitality Internships programme for information and to apply.