Where do I belong? - A question that frequently crosses Sarah´s mind when asked about her identity. The 22-year-old girl is half Danish and half Salvadorian and was born in Indonesia, moved to Mexico at the age of seven, and for the last ten years she has been living in Denmark, where she is studying the BA in International Hospitality Management at Dania in Randers.
Sarah chose this study program because she wanted to work in a field, where she can explore the world and meet people with different cultural backgrounds, which is also why she decided to do her internship abroad. "Besides wanting to work in a country where English is an official language, I decided to do my internship in Canada because it is a popular destination that has a lot to offer. I consider Toronto a mini-version of New York City: it is busy and active and full of opportunities, but everything here is more relaxed and slower-paced than in New York".
Her first three weeks as Administrative Assistant in Events at the Harbourfront Centre can be summarized as a good learning experience. "I have been given individual assignments and been kept busy preparing ideas, planning and executing events. This includes coming up with ideas, concepts, mission, vision, objectives, also researching possible activities, and entertainment that can be part of an event. In addition, I am responsible for sending out contracts, budgeting for events, reporting etc."
Cultural shock
Sarah´s experience abroad so far has been inspirational to the point where she is considering coming back to look for work after she finishes her BA at Dania in January. "I am surprised how professional yet laid back the working environment is here. As a trainee, I am given a lot of back-up material and training so I can get familiar with the systems and how they coordinate and delegate work. So overall I am very happy to gain additional skills and knowledge here that I would otherwise not get if I stayed in Denmark due to language barriers".
Although she has lived in different countries at a young age, she still continues to experience cultural shock wherever she goes. "The only real big "shock" I experienced is the high price of groceries here in Canada and the rush hour to and from work. The subway is usually very crowded; I consider finding an unoccupied seat a lucky day."