Food, shelter and love in Brno

Well, what an amazing first week in the Czech Republic or, as the locals say and the Australians mispronounce, good old Ceska.

We’ve managed to cover a lot in our first days in this quirky country - too much to include in one go!

Seeing as we’ve spent most of the first week on the various human rights enshrined within international conventions, I’ll stick with describing how some of the basic needs for human life work here.

FOOD

Food here is a number of things. Filling. Warming. Potato-tastic. It is also DIRT CHEAP and I doubt I will ever get over being able to dine out in a fine restaurant with gorgeous views for under AUD 20.00, including drinks and dessert. Fancy a scoop or three of gelato? That’ll be AUD 1.20 please. A slab of steak? A handful of crowns will see you through. And don’t even get me started on the pivo (beer). Not only is it high quality pilsner, but it’s also all of AUD 1.00 a glass in most places. Sometimes it’s as little as 25 cents. I’m not a beer person but I’d be willing to convert for that price.

Typical meal at the cafeteria - Goulash with potato dumplings

Stepping out of the frosty air into a warm café for a spot of hot chocolate so thick it has to be eaten with a spoon is, no lie, one of the biggest highlights of my day.

That, and visiting Billa, the local supermarket chain that sits across the street from our residence. From Hello Kitty ice cream to Hannah Montana non-alcoholic wine, Billa has all your essentials covered. It’s pretty much become our local and we frequent it at least once a day.

Baby bear apricot cake. The weirder it is, the more compelled you are to buy it and try it.

Italian is big here. As an alternative to the traditional meat and potato dishes that still retains a high level of warming carbohydrates, it makes sense. But it soon became our mission

to find a non-Italian place after eating risotto and ravioli for dinner every night. Not to hate on the pasta though, it’s all delicious - gnocchi’s on every menu to the delight of many.

Success! Happy Chinese New Year!

SHELTER

Living in a university dorm seems to have thrown up a mixed bag of experiences amongst those participating, especially those rooming with an actual student of Masaryk University. I have been more than blessed, however, with my lovely Serbian room mate, Ana, who frequently shares her cake, fridge, excellent English and knowledge of good places to eat in Brno with me.

View from my room of my first night in Brno

On a broader level, the architectural landscape of both this city and Prague, which we visited over the weekend (!) is consistently stunning. 15^th Century baroque and neo-renaissance cathedrals seem to be as carelessly scattered throughout Europe as RSL’s are back home. St Petrov’s Cathedral in the midst of Brno, with it’s sky high spires and panoramic view of the entire city, is a typical example of the astonishing buildings you can expect to see on an everyday skyline. Same goes for ornate metalwork and gold leafing on balconies, marbled facades for any one of the six or so major theatres and generally complementary colour scheme that all the buildings in Brno seem to have going on.

The view of Brno from the top of St Petrov’s Church. Note the red nose.

Tradition vs. modernity in Freedom Square

Beautiful Brno

A place where we spend a fair amount of time is room 038 in the law faculty of Masaryk University. The building is gorgeous, open and lit by a lot of sunlight which glances off the white marble and wood that makes up a lot of its interior and exterior. It feels a bit like a UN building. Apparently it was used by the Gestapo during the Communist regime.

WARMTH

It’s generally agreed that the weather here has been ridiculously mild for what is supposed to be the depths of European winter. We’ve been lucky enough to have blue skies and sun for most of our time, save one episode of rain and driving, wet, sideways blowing snow in Prague during a four hour walking tour. There have been a few magical bouts of falling snow in Brno but they never seem to last long - the quest to craft a snowman still remains.

LOVE

Everyone on this course, without exception, is lovely. Our tutors, co-ordinators and guest speakers have so far been endearingly enthusiastic about their respective areas of expertise. One of them even claps his hands a little bit when he gets really excited. There have been plenty of scheduled and spontaneous group dinners and activities and new friendships have become Facebook official. Whatever reservations anyone had were quickly tossed aside during group cocktails and other bubbly filled, strobe-lit outings in Brno and Prague. After readings had been finished, of course.

Outside St Vitus Cathedral in Prague

Loving the shopping at the moment. Everything’s on sale and most people have purchased at least one or two new items for their travel wardrobes. Shoes were a big one after some pairs got wet in the crazy Prague snow. Dresses for an operatic ballet were another good excuse to trawl through Zara and H&M. It’s safe to say that we’re quite a sartorially splendid crew at the moment.

Most of all, loving the essence of travel. New people, new places, new words, new knowledge and new experiences. And by the end of it, new you.

Czech-ing in again soon,

Jam..

Week 2: Spanish classes, ancient Pyramids and meeting Leon Trovsky´s grandson!…among many other adventures!

Week 2: Spanish classes, ancient Pyramids and meeting Leon Trovsky´s grandson!…among many other adventures! 

Rebecca Honey blogs from Mexico City on the Intensive Spanish in Mexico program 

 

A panarama view of the beautiful town of Taxco

It’s the end of my 2nd week in Mexico; time is starting to pass more quickly. Last Friday we travelled to the beautiful town of Taxco. I would love to spend more time there; a day trip is far too short! Taxco is amazing, everything from the hilltop colonial Spanish houses, cobblestone streets and VW Beetle taxis racing up the steep narrow streets barely managing to pass each other. 

The Spanish and Health Students at the National Palace

On Saturday we spent the day exploring the heart of Mexico City, visiting the National Palace and admiring the Murals of Diego Rivera, Cathedrals and ancient ruins from the prehispanic times. Of course a Saturday night in Mexico is not complete without tequila, mescal and dancing the Salsa! After only a few classes I only knew a few steps but had a go anyway! Sunday was spent visiting the Teotihuacan Pyramids. Teotihuacan was once the largest city in Latin America in the first half of the first millennium AD, and the larger Sun pyramid is the third largest pyramid in the world! After the Pyramids we visited the Shrine of the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe. The place was crowded as a Sunday service was starting and it poured with rain! However, that didn’t stop the ambiance and warmth of the place shining through. 

On Monday we began our Spanish classes. I'm in Una Basico, which is the lowest level, along with 3 others in the Spanish program. The classes are very 'Intensive', I’m learning a lot but we are taking in so much that it’s difficult to remember it all once the lesson is over for the day. I still find myself frustrated that I can't communicate enough and being with Australians most of the time makes it difficult to find people to practice with. I must say though, I couldn’t ask for a better group of people!

In the heart of Cuidad de Mexico

On Wednesday we visited the lovely district of Coyoacán, home of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Casa Azul ‘the blue house’ is where Frida and Diego lived and was transformed into a museum after Frida died. I´m intrigued by the life of Frida Kahlo and extreme honesty and transparency in her art. Just a few blocks down the road is the Leon Trotsky Museum. Leon Trotsky spent his final years in Coyoacan before Lenin finally caught up with him and a visit to is home (now the museum) brought more than expected. A documentary was being filmed about Trotsky’s life and his grandson was there, we were able to meet him and take photos with him. That was definitely a highlight of the week! 

The Sun Pyramid in Teotihuacan

Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera's house in Coyoacán

Rebecca Honey is participating in our January 2012 Intensive Spanish program at La Salle University, Mexico. Rebecca is about to enter into her 4th year of a Bachelor Social Work degree at the University of Newcastle.

Anything but pedestrian Prague!

 Anything but pedestrian Prague! - International Law and Human Rights Blog with Lauren Howes

It doesn't matter where you are in the world, getting up on a Monday morning is very hard. Especially when you have had such a fabulous few days in one of the best cities in the world!

It's hard to believe that we are more than a third of the way through our International Law and Human Rights Course. We have had such great experiences already! On Thursday we got to be judges for a few minutes, taking our seat on the bench at the Constitutional Court. A few of us were also lucky enough to get tickets to the National Ballet Company performing the 'Swan Lake' ballet! It was a truly spectacular performance and it only cost $7 AUD!

The whole group on the bench at the Constitutional Court

After a week of anticipation, Friday finally arrived and we were on our first weekend trip away. Two and a half hours later and our train pulled up to the 'hlavni nadrazi' in Prague! We walked from our hotel through the beautiful streets of Prague to the offices of Allan and Overy. We were given a great talk by the office manager of the firm, who spoke about the ethical responsibility of corporate lawyers. This was then followed by talks from representative of Czech NGO's. There were some really interesting perspectives on human rights, and it was great to compare the Australian and European systems of law.

Saturday was definitely the best day I have had so far. We started early and began our walking tour of Prague. Accompanied by our wonderful your guide Wencelaslas, we conquered most of the major sites of the city. From the Prague castle to Charles Bridge, words can't quite describe how beautiful this city is! Standing on the Charles Bridge with a bunch of new friends whilst it was snowing was just amazing! A word of caution though: the streets here are all made of marble. This is very pretty, but when it starts snowing it gets very slippery!

Our walking group with the city of Prague in the background

After such a big day on Saturday (and for some, a very big Saturday night!!!!), Sunday morning was very early. We checked out of Hotel Evropa and caught the train to a little city about an hour out of Prague. Kutna Hura contained a fascinating church that houses the bones of 30000 plague victims. These bones had been turned into works of art - everything from pyramids to shields and chandeliers. Honestly - it was a little bit creepy! We finished up the day visiting a beautiful church and eating deep fried cheese!


 

I've found out there are definitely some things I take for granted in Australia!

• Laws about smoking! The Czech Republic has no laws about smoking - you can smoke anywhere! This includes inside in shopping centres and restaurants!

• The natural beauty of Australia - especially the beach! The Czech Republic is a beautiful country, but it's landlocked! I definitely miss seeing the beach.

• Vegetables. I love salad and vegetables. But nothing is served here with vegetables! I have eaten a lot of potatoes, bread, meat and cheese, but not much else!

• Shower screens! No shower has a shower screen over here. Let's just say I have learnt the hard way not to put any dry clothes anywhere near the shower.

I'm very excited for the week ahead. We have a lot of really interesting activities scheduled! Until then!

The gorgeous Prague Castle

A shield made of bones at Kutna Hora

The group in Kutna Hora

Charles Bridge in Prague

Lauren Howes is participating in our January 2012 International Law and Human Rights program at Masaryk University, Czech Republic. Lauren is about to start her 5th year of a Bachelor of Laws/Medical Science degree at the University of Wollongong. 

Health in Mexico article

Edith Cowan University (Perth) have written the following article about their student, Antoinette Hays, and her experience on the AIM Overseas 'Health Care in Mexico' program.

http://www.ecu.edu.au/news/latest-news/2012/01/mexican-adventures

Global Leadership Program in Panama: interview with returned student Lachlan John

Lachlan John [pictured above, right] is a Civil Engineering student from the University of Technology Sydney. Earlier this year, Lachlan left our shores and travelled all the way to Central America to participate in the Global Leadership Program in Panama. Lachlan was such an awesome participant that he has been invited back again next year as a Student Coordinator, which is a real honour! Lachlan tells us about his experiences below:

Hi Lachlan! Could you please introduce yourself?
Hi! I'm Lachlan John and I'm currently studying Civil Engineering at UTS

Why did you choose the GLP Panama program?
I chose the Panama program because I wanted to visit a completely new area of the world and experience what life is like there, and Panama seemed to be a good first step, a safe introduction to Latin America shall we say!



Did you have any fears or concerns before doing the program?
I was a little worried about the workload as it sounded extreme, but it turned out to be quite manageable, to the point where I was able to hone my teaching and tutoring skills by helping the others do theirs. Being a native English speaker was definitely an advantage.

Tell me about a typical day during the program
Up at 7:30ish, shower and skip breakfast to get on the bus by 8.
Arrive at the Uni around 8:30/9.
Have first class till 12 then break for lunch.
Have second class from 12:30/1 to 3:30/4 then head home on the bus.
Arrive home around 5ish, make plans for that evening/hang out with other program members.
Do homework till anywhere from 12-3am then sleep.



What was the highlight of the program for you?
Definitely the friends I made. I now have 15 or so friends from Mexico, one from Venezuela, a few from Columbia, a few from Panama, a couple from the States and one from the Czech Republic. Other than this, the whole travel experience in general was great.



Did you gain any interesting insights into the Panamanian culture/Panamanian people?
Panama is really a country between western progression and old world traditions. While Panama city and a couple of other places are really riding on a wave of development, the vast majority of the country is almost virgin forest or countryside with quite poor residents, including a number of indigenous tribes, some of whom still live by their traditional means. This makes for very interesting cultural identity issues when not everyone within the one country can identify with the same patriotic ideal or mantra. Plus it can be quite confronting going from the relative affluence of some parts of the city to dirt floor huts in the country.


Do you have some tips for someone who's going on this course?
If you are willing to put in the hours and perhaps go without some sleep here and there, the study should be no problem. Being a native English speaker, you will have a huge advantage and may just find a lot of the work at least easier, if not easy.



I had originally planned to fly through Buenos Aires, Santiago and Bogota to get to Panama before the volcano erupted in Chile. I did have friends who were able to do this and I would highly recommend this option if you are going to be in the region anyway. This would be best before the program, as you will have time between your exams finishing and the program starting, whereas you won’t have any between the program finishing and the next semester starting.


Must-do activities are San Blas island weekend, hopefully we will be able to organise this again in 2012; a visit to Casco Viejo (old town part of Panama, with lots of history and some good restaurants and clubs) as well as Panama Viejo (original Panama ruins).

There are a few good clubs, with some new ones opening as we were leaving, all within a short distance of each other, however I cannot remember where.

How has this program impacted you?
This program has impacted me in my love for travel, I now cannot wait till I’m on my next adventure; and my ability to lead in alien situations with cultural sensitivity.



What would you say to somebody who’s thinking of doing the program?
I would say definitely go for it! It is an experience you’ll never forget and you’ll be on Skype for the next 2 or 3 months talking to all your new friends you grew so close to over the month.

Getting to know Cambridge - Acacia tells us about studying Science in one of the world's oldest universities

Acacia Burns [pictured above, looking very much at home at the University of Cambridge] is a recent Science/Law graduate from Griffith Uni. Acacia is one our superstar students: in 2010, she attended our Global Leadership Program in Prague. We were so impressed with Acacia that she was then selected to be the AIM Overseas Campus Coordinator at Griffith Uni, acting as our representative on campus. Then in July this year, Acacia got the study/travel bug again and hopped on a plane to the UK to participate in the Cambridge Science program. Read about her experiences below...

Hi Acacia! Could you please introduce yourself?
My name is Acacia and I have just graduated from a Bachelor of Laws/ Bachelor of Science (Environment) degree at Griffith University in Brisbane. I studied at Cambridge University in July 2011, as part of the Science Summer School course.

Why did you choose this AIM Overseas course?
I choose this course because it was my last chance to study overseas during my undergraduate degree. I wanted to use this opportunity to experience a life that very few people are privy to, and to better understand and appreciate my own university experience here in Australia.

The course theme for 2011 was Impact and Responsibility, so it suited my degree well, and, being an AIM Overseas Campus Coordinator, I knew what lengths the AIM Overseas team go to to ensure their programs are not only unique, but also of the highest academic quality, and provide a good balance between study and fun. Cambridge University has quite restricted public access and there are very few universities in Australia that have exchange partnerships with Cambridge, so making the decision to do this course was easy.

The gardens at Trinity Hall

Did you have any fears or concerns before doing the program?
I was quite concerned about the pace of lectures and the assessment. I thought that it would be too hard, and was questioning whether I would pass. I soon found out that there was nothing to worry about. The program director, lecturers and other support staff were all very friendly and approachable, and encouraged us to ask questions as much as possible. Every college also has a resident “tutor”, a local student who is on call throughout the program if you have any problems (scholarly or otherwise) and you don’t feel comfortable approaching a lecturer. I thought that the assessment was very fair- not too easy, but not too hard either- and it still gave me time to explore and get to know other students.

Tell me about a typical day at Cambridge.
A typical day at Cambridge would consist of getting up around 7am, walking through the beautiful Clare College gardens to the “Buttery” (the English term for cafeteria) for breakfast just after 8am, morning lectures from 9am to around 12pm, a break for lunch and then afternoon lectures from 1pm to around 3.30-4pm. Dinner was served in the candle lit dinning room in Clare College Old Court at 6.30pm, after which there would usually be an evening lecture scheduled, or some free time to wander around the town or see a Shakespeare play in the college gardens as part of the Summer Shakespeare Festival.


Acacia on Clare Bridge - the oldest bridge in Cambridge - overlooking the Kings College Chapel next door to Clare

How has this program affected you?
Being a part of this program really made me realise how important it is take the opportunities that come your way whenever you can. Studying at Cambridge was a once in a lifetime experience that I never would have had if it weren’t for AIM Overseas. In a professional sense, studying overseas has become a major talking point during job interviews and it has definitely enhanced my employment prospects.

What was the highlight of the program for you?
The incredible history! In a place as old as Cambridge there is a story behind everything you see and I just loved taking time out to stroll through the college grounds (and as you are technically a student while you are there, a simple flash of your student card and the porters will waiver the admission fee) contemplating the enormity of the place just as countless others have before me. From the Bridge of Sighs at St Johns College, the beautiful gardens of Clare College and Trinity Hall, and of course the famous Kings College Chapel that marks the centre of town, there is something to see around every corner.


The Fellows Garden at Clare College

I especially enjoyed the evening lectures about the history of Cambridge architecture, the colleges, and the university traditions of academic dress and graduation, some of which we still see today (the evening lectures are also helpful in finding out where the towns hidden treasures are!). Becoming immersed in such a rich history, it is easy to forget that the modern university of the 21st century is directly descended from places like Cambridge.


The picturesque town and punts on the river Cam

Did you do some extra travel before/after/during the program?
I stopped over in London for a week before the program started. It was a great way for me to catch up with friends, get over the jet lag, and do some sightseeing (of course!).

Do you have any advice for students thinking about doing this course?

(1) If you have the option, do the assessment
It isn’t easy, but having something marked and graded by an academic of Cambridge University (including good and comprehensive feedback) was truly satisfying. I felt more like a student, rather than a tourist, and receiving an academic transcript with Cambridge University on the header was well worth the late night cramming. It allows you to really engage with the subject matter of your course and is also a good excuse to visit the main university library, the grandness of which has to be seen to be believed.

(2) Get to know your resident tutor
The resident tutors are your first point of call in an emergency, or if some other problem arises while you are staying on college, so it’s a good idea to keep their number handy. The same can be said for the college “porters”, who are always on hand if you need help with directions, finding the laundry room, or you simply want to find nice place to eat. Also keep in mind that some of the colleges close there gates at night, so if you’re planning on coming back late (from all that late night study in the library no doubt!) it’s a good idea to check in with the porters first.

(3) Stay open-minded
One of the best things about a program like this is that it attracts a diverse range of students from all over the world with different cultural backgrounds and varying ages. Take this opportunity to get to know people you wouldn't normally talk to. My neighbour at Clare College was 80 years old and had been coming to Cambridge every summer for the last 12 years! Talking to her was like reading a book she was just so full of knowledge. My advice: stay open minded because you never know who you might meet.

(4) Make the most of your stay
Lastly, book a few extra days in Cambridge before or after your trip so that you can really make the most of your stay.

What would you say to somebody who’s thinking of doing the program?
Go for it! How many people can say that they actually studied at one of the most prestigious universities in the world and rubbed shoulders with academic greats? You have everything to gain and nothing to lose, so just do it!


Group shot of Acacia and fellow AIM Overseasers at Cambridge

Thanks Acacia, great advice!

Read another article by Acacia on the Global Leadership Program and the benefits of studying overseas.

This program runs every year in the July uni holidays. To find out more about this program or to apply, please go to our website: www.aimoverseas.com.au or email us on info@aimoverseas.com.au

Join us on Facebook for more photos, travel tips and updates: www.facebook.com/aimoverseas

Victoria's Hong Kong Adventure - Victoria Shipp tells us about how studying in Hong Kong has opened up her eyes to exciting new opportunities

Victoria Shipp [pictured above, at The Peak in Hong Kong], a Griffith University student currently completing a Bachelor of Asian Business, travelled to the exciting city of Hong Kong earlier this year to participate in our International Trade Finance program. The experience has opened up her eyes to the huge range of careers opportunities available to her, helped her make up her mind that she was doing the right degree and has inspired her to explore more of Asia. Read more...

Hi Victoria! Where are you currently studying?
I am studying a Bachelor of Asian Business at Griffith University.

Why did you choose our International Trade Finance program?
While I may not be studying banking or finance or economics at university, I chose AIM Overseas' International Trade Finance Program because it taught me all about the Asian finance system from their perspective and not a Western perspective. As a student hoping to live and work in Hong Kong for either an Australian company or a Chinese company, I felt this was vital to my learning.

Did you have any fears or concerns before doing the program?
I had a load of fears. As this was the first time that the course was being offered, I had no-one to ask about their experience and what it was like living in Hong Kong for a month. My biggest fear was not being able to communicate with the locals and not fitting in well with the other university students also joining me. My fear of not being able to communicate with the locals was overcome once I spoke to Jooliet about how well the locals speak English. As for the fitting in part, I didn’t really overcome that until I met the other university students.


Victoria and friends posing in the hotel lobby in Hong Kong, about to head off to the races

Tell me about a typical day at Hong Kong PolyU
A typical day at PolyU involved a lecture from 9am to 12pm. The lectures were taken by two different lecturers who had the most amazing knowledge of the Asian Finance sector so I knew that we were in good hands. They were great teachers who used real life examples in their lectures to help get the lesson across.

At 12pm we broke for lunch until 2.30pm where we would head back to the university for a field trip. Field trips included trips to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, the Hong Kong Monetary Fund (Hong Kong’s version of the Reserve Bank of Australia), Bloomberg and Austrade.

At 4.30pm, we were given the option of being taken back to the hotel or staying in the city to do some shopping. Nine times out of ten we stayed and went shopping of exploring until late at night. Bedtime usually came around 11pm each night as there was always so much to do and see!

Fridays were our days off where we took part in full day tours of Hong Kong. The full day tours were amazing and the tour guides were so friendly and down to earth. Lunch on the full day tours consisted of a traditional dim sum lunch and was always highly anticipated. The food in Hong Kong is AMAZING!

What was the highlight of the program for you?
The highlight of the program for me was going to Bloomberg and Austrade. As someone who wishes to work for Austrade once I graduate, it was great to meet a fellow Australian who was achieving her dream of working around the world. She was such an inspiration!

Another highlight would definitely be the trip over to Macau some of us did. I along with four friends went bungy jumping off Macau tower, which happens to be the world’s highest bungy jump at 233 meters! It was the most amazing experience of my life and showed me what I was capable of achieving anything (I gave my Grandma a mini-heart-attack when she saw the video but my Dad is STILL watching it!).


Victoria and fellow AIM Overseas participants at the world's highest bungy jump at Macau Tower, Macau


3... 2... 1... JUMP!

Do you have any interesting facts about Hong Kong culture or Hong Kong people?
The nightlife in Hong Kong is off the hook! We attended beer festivals, and multiple bars from all around the world. There is a wicked nightlife every single night of the week and no matter what night you go out drinking, there are always locals eager to serve you and make you feel completely at home.

The locals are the friendliest and down to earth people I have ever met. They are always willing to drop everything to help an Aussie out when we got lost (which was often!). They will also do anything to make a sale. The markets hidden in alleyways are the best places to get the best deals on everything from shoes, to handbags, to watches. You can find a bargain everywhere in Hong Kong! As for ‘lost in translation’ moments, nearly everyone in Hong Kong speaks great English so I found it really easy to communicate when I was by myself and asking for directions or bargaining for a deal.

Do you have some tips for someone who's going on this course?
Some tips for someone who wishes to do this course would be to attend every lecture (you will learn invaluable information and they aren’t recorded like they are in many Australian universities) and definitely attend the field trips. By attending the field trips, you meet people in the field you are studying and you never know, you could be working for them one day!

The best nightlife I experienced was in Lan Kwai Fong or Wan Chai. Lan Kwai Fong has bars from all around the world and the people there are so friendly are welcoming. We even attended a beer festival in Lan Kwai Fong one night!

Pack a lot of cool clothes as the weather over in Hong Kong in July is hot, sticky and VERY muggy! I lived in shorts and singlets every day as it was too hot to wear anything else. Also, pack an umbrella as it is the rainy season in Hong Kong in July. It rained for one, maybe two weeks while I was there and the umbrella became a lifesaver many times.

And remember, whenever in doubt, just ask Jooliet as she is from Hong Kong and can help you with any questions you may have (and trust me, you’ll have loads and Jooliet is always more than happy to answer them).

How has this program impacted you?
Professionally, this program was a dream come true. It helped me make up my mind that I was definitely happy doing the degree I was doing. It also steered me in the right direction while showing me what jobs were available to me once I completed my degree. Before I left for the program, I couldn’t answer families and friends questions when asking me the type of company I would work for once I completed university. I came back from the program telling family and friends that I was hoping to work for Austrade once I finished university. The International Trade Finance Program opened my eyes to the huge range of jobs that were actually available to me.

This program impacted me on a personal level because it helped me grow up and make decisions about the future. I learnt to stand on my own two feet and make my own decisions. I was bitten by the travelling bug after returning from Hong Kong and now can’t wait to explore Asia more!

What would you say to somebody who’s thinking of doing the program?
To anyone thinking of doing this program, go for it. You will have the experience of a lifetime and make life-long friends. What you learn is invaluable, the people you meet are incredible and the memories you make while participating in the program will stay with you forever. You will not be sorry by choosing to participate in this once in a lifetime experience.


Taken at the Jumbo Floating Restaurant, a must-see tourist attraction in Hong Kong that has been visited by Queen Elizabeth II, John Wayne, Tom Cruise and now the participants of AIM Overseas' 2011 International Trade Finance Program! :D

Thanks so much for sharing your experiences with us, Victoria! We hope you get to visit Asia again some time soon!

"You won't regret what you did, but what you didn't do!" - Karandeep Narula on why you should study overseas

Karandeep Narula [pictured above, in Paris], an international student who has grown up in India and Thailand, is currently pursuing his penultimate year of studies in a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Canberra. In July this year, Karandeep participated in our European Management and Marketing program held in the beautiful city of Tours, France. The experience has had a profound impact on Karandeep and he's got some great advice on why you should study overseas (as well as a hilarious story on how Karandeep's attempts at the notoriously difficult French language led him to accidentally hit on a supermarket cashier). Read on to find out more...

Why did you choose AIM Overseas' European Management and Marketing program?
Was it just fate or destiny?

I saw the AIM Overseas info session advertisement on the University of Canberra's Moodle account and it caught my eyes as, at the time, I had been thinking about doing an exchange program. I noted down the day and time of the info session but somehow it just slipped from my mind.

Then one day, after I had finished tutoring a class, a girl walked into the classroom and asked me, “AIM Overseas??” and I said “Nope! We just finished a business stats class”. I then started having a conversation with her and found out that there were actually two AIM Overseas information sessions running on that particular day. Once I came to know that another session was about to begin, I thought to myself that maybe I should take a seat.

I then received a piece of paper with a list of programs, and the European Management and Marketing program in France caught my attention because advertising and business studies have always been my forte. I also felt that this trip would add to my exposure in terms of making me open up and learn and experience other cultures and traditions. I have always wanted to study and travel at the same time and through AIM Overseas I was able to do that. Moreover, the course would add to my personal and professional growth.

Did you have any fears or concerns before doing the program?
Oh yes! I faced so many problems preparing to go overseas that at one point I thought that I wouldn't even be able to go, but Jooliet from AIM Overseas made sure my documentation was in order.

Another fear I started to have was that I would be travelling all alone to Europe and didn’t even know their language. It’s not like I haven't travelled alone before but this was that first time I had organised everything, whereas in the past my parents had organised everything for me. My trip to Australia was arranged by my parents for me but France has been my independent effort.

Tell me about a typical day at ESCEM
Every day was a different day! Why wouldn’t it be when you're in Europe?

We’d wake up in the morning and receive croissants, a baguette, butter, cheese and fruits etc. for breakfast. We then had to catch a bus which I would usually end up running for as I would (most of the time) be late I had not woken up in time, even after several of my friends had tried knocking on my door for ages. This is how we would head off to ESCEM for classes which started at 9:30 or 10:00am.


Karandeep and fellow AIM Overseas participants take a happy snap during their Welcome Dinner

The class would continue until 12:30pm and then lunch would be served at the school. During the lunch break, we were free to do what we wanted; some of us went to the markets next to the ESCEM while others usually hung out in the student commons playing pool, Foosball or the Ps3. After lunch, classes resumed until 5 pm after which we were free to do anything we wanted. Some days we had cooking or French language classes after 5pm.

What was the highlight of the program for you?
Those chilli shots!! All of us decided to go to the square (La Plamerau) to celebrate our last day at Tours. We rocked up at a bar where all the French students in our class hung out and we just started ordering vodka and tequila shots as they were only 2 EUROS!

We kept on having shots until the bartender made chilli vodka shots for all of us. Everyone turned red with smoke blowing out of their ears and tears streaming down their faces!! Everyone asked for water but the bartender never gave it to us!


The infamous chilli shots (we can't believe you guys actually drank that!!)

In terms of the course, I feel that the organisation and fluidity of the experience was the highlight. It never felt like a classroom environment because the basis of the course was practical and hands-on. Being part of this creative environment, I came to appreciate business and advertising in a different light. I am pretty sure that the course introduced me to advertising and business information which I would have never gotten to learn.

Do you gain any interesting insights on French people and culture?
Well, it was very strange to see how French people separated their professional lives from their personal lives. Every single day, once work hours were over, you would see them enjoying their lives to the max. They would call up all their friends, grab some snacks, cheese and a bottle of wine and just sit underneath the Eiffel tower for hours till midnight. Wherever you went, the city would be up until 2 or 3am in the morning. Even students went out a lot; they would study during the school hours, get back home to read their notes for an hour or two, grab dinner then head out to hang out with their friends in bars and clubs. If felt as if they were celebrating every day!

Before heading to France, a couple of my friends had told me that French people were very rude and they didn't speak English well and that I'd have to speak to them in French otherwise they wouldn't respond. I found this to be completely wrong! French people were very helpful and if you did show that you were trying to speak their language, they would start having a conversation with you - in English!


Saint Gatien's Cathedral, which Karandeep visited on one of the program-organised cultural trips

Did you have any funny 'lost in translation' moments?
Yes! I do remember one… Once at the supermarket, my friends and I said to the lady at the cashier, “Merci beau cul,” and she smiled. Later, one of our French friends told us that instead of saying "Merci beaucoup," which means "Thank you very much," we had said "Thank you nice a**!" We couldn’t stop laughing.

Do you have some tips for someone who's going on this course?
• Go 2 weeks before your course starts or stay 2 weeks more after your course so you can take the opportunity to travel to other European countries. I arrived in France on the day of the course and had 2 extra weeks after the course during which I explored France, Spain, Amsterdam, Netherlands.


Karandeep in front of the impressive Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain

• Make sure you do all the readings required of you before attending class. Prepare all the notes during the class and review them once before you head out and party.
• The bar right beside La Loire River is the best place to chill and hang out as they have got different music being performed everyday such as rock, tap dance etc. If this is not your thing, then head off to La Plamerau which we called “The Square”.
• Pack light and shop more because once you are in Europe, you will definitely turn into a shopaholic because of the fashionable clothes and the massive sale prices.


La Plamerau [“The Square”]

How has this program impacted you?
This program has made me more mature and confident and I have started seeing things in a different and positive way. This experience has made me more practical, so much so that even those around me have noticed it. In terms of the impact this has made on my professional life, it will surely be the highlight of my resume when I start applying for jobs and will be able to share my experience during the interview.

The major impacts I have felt have been from interacting with people from another culture, seeing some of the overseas destinations that some may never see first-hand and learning a new language, French, which is one of the most popular languages after English.

What would you say to somebody who’s thinking of doing the program?
I have no regrets because I got exactly what I wanted: a program which was a fun learning experience. You get to travel to France and other European countries as well. So don’t think! You are just wasting your time! It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and when opportunity knocks on your door, just grab it because you won't regret what you did, but what you didn't do. I am sure that given the chance no one would pass on this course. The trip alone is worth it!

I thought way too much about whether or not I should go, even after getting accepted for the program; but my dad pushed me and said, “You should go! It’s an experience you will never forget which no one can take away from you!” I am now passing on this advice to you, because by doing an overseas study program, you will study, travel, learn about a new culture and see yourself becoming more mature and confident.

Great advice! Thanks so much for sharing your experiences with us Karandeep - merci beaucoup! ;)



This program runs every year in the July uni holidays. To find out more about this program or to apply, please go to our website: www.aimoverseas.com.au or email us on info@aimoverseas.com.au

Join us on Facebook for more photos, travel tips and updates: www.facebook.com/aimoverseas

Pace yourself - Michael Warrender talks about studying History at Cambridge University

Photo courtesy of Laura Galea


Michael Warrender, a 3rd year Bachelor of Arts/International Studies student from the University of Adelaide, talks to us about his experience doing the Cambridge History Summer School program. Read on to find out more...

Hi Michael! Could you please introduce yourself? I am Michael Warrender a now 3rd year Bachelor of Arts/International studies student at Adelaide University.

Why did you choose this AIM Overseas course? I chose this course largely because it provided me with the opportunity to study at Cambridge University, something which I have always wanted to do. I also selected this course because it seemed academically excellent. The topics on offer were of interest to me.

Did you have any fears/concerns before doing the program? And if so, were you able to overcome these fears?
This trip was so well organised by AIM Overseas that I had no real fears or concerns before doing this program. This is even considering that I had not been overseas for several years and had never left the country on my own before.

Tell me about a typical day at Cambridge.
A typical day at Cambridge involved a smorgasbord breakfast at one’s college. This was followed by the morning plenary lecture, which this year focused on the theme of war and peace. After this came a short break before another lesson, this time of one of the electives. Lunch succeeded the class and there was the opportunity to eat wherever one wanted. The final elective lesson then took place. This was the end of the academic day.

Apart from dinner, which was supplied by the college, students then had the evening to themselves. Occasionally there were evening lectures or social activities. Otherwise, one could explore the city at one’s leisure.

If the choice of completing an essay was taken, some evenings/lunch breaks had to be set aside for research and writing.


What was the highlight of the program for you?
The highlight was definitely the opportunity to study at such a prestigious location. Cambridge is a place where one can easily get lost. For several hours in my case! To be treated like a Cambridge student was excellent.

Also, meeting people from all over the world made this experience worthwhile.

Do you have any insider tips for someone who's going on this course?
If one plans to do the essays, pace oneself. It sounds obvious, but doing a bit each day is far more profitable than losing a whole day that could be spent seeing the sites.

There are so many pubs that it is difficult to recommend. The college bars are great as they are designed for students and are rather cheap.

The food provided by the colleges was not brilliant but not that bad. The only meal one has to worry about each day, therefore, is lunch. There are plenty of places to get some cheap food.

Hire a bike! It makes it so much easier to see the whole of Cambridge.

The weekends are a good time to go to London. It is only a 40-50 minute train trip from Cambridge. However, the station can be crowded.


Photo courtesy of Daniel Shields

How has this program impacted you? I now know that I can participate actively at a different university of a very high standard.

I also have the experience of travelling and studying by myself.

What would you say to somebody who’s thinking of doing the program?
Go for it! It is an excellent experience!

Thanks for sharing your experiences with us, Michael!


Photo courtesy of Daniel Shields


This program runs every year in the July uni holidays. To find out more about this program or to apply, please go to our website: www.aimoverseas.com.au or email us on info@aimoverseas.com.au

Join us on Facebook for more photos, travel tips and updates: www.facebook.com/aimoverseas