UAlberta International has a friendly team of professionals that focus on various areas of work that support internationalization at UAlberta. Let's spend a few minutes getting to know Nicole, Senior Coordinator for Sponsored Student Programs!
Have you ever lived/studied/worked/volunteered outside of Canada? If yes, tell us when and where, and share one key life lesson from your experience.
During my Bachelor of Education degree program, I decided to take a year off to travel and work in New Zealand. After returning to Canada, I was excited to find other opportunities to explore the world, so I completed a Global Citizenship course in Ghana through UAlberta's Faculty of Education. A few years after finishing my degree, I moved to Daegu, South Korea to teach English. Throughout these experiences, one key lesson I have learned is to let go of all expectations. As a visitor in other places, having an open mind and embracing challenges is essential for learning about that place and having a meaningful experience.
What is your favourite space on UAlberta campuses and why?
The garden and pond behind the Humanities Centre is a beautiful spot to relax and unwind.
What do you like most about your work at UAlberta?
I really appreciate the wide range of people I engage with on a daily basis. I love getting to know so many colleagues here on campus, representatives from sponsoring organizations around the world, and other university representatives at recruitment events. Most importantly, I have the pleasure of connecting with so many international sponsored students, from the first moment they are thinking of applying to UAlberta, up until they graduate. It is very rewarding to watch them grow and achieve their goals over the years.
What's something that has surprised you about your chosen career path?
My career path has certainly evolved over the years. I spent eight years doing youth work and went into my Bachelor of Education degree imagining I would end up teaching in a school. I did not really think about all the other career options that are possible with a degree in education. I feel very fortunate to have a job that combines so many elements I love, builds on my experiences, and provides so many learning opportunities.