Home for Christmas!

I have traveled back home to Glasgow to spend Christmas with my family. This has been a perfect time to relax and recharge my batteries before I return to work at Northeastern in the new year. It has been fun catching up with friends and family throughout the festivities!

Happy Thanksgiving!

This weekend we celebrated Thanksgiving in Boston. Our supervisor, Ketty, invited us to spend the holiday at her home with her family and friends to experience a proper American Thanksgiving dinner. On Thursday morning we rose early and baked some chocolate chip cookies to take with us.

At Ketty's we were treated to a scrumptious spread of delicious food including BBQ'd turkey with cranberry sauce, stuffing, sweet potatoes, roasted vegtables, creamy mash and the best bread rolls or 'biscuits' I have ever tasted. We enjoyed our traditional thanksgiving meal sitting round the table and chatting with our new friends. Upon arrival we each wrote down what we were thankful for and this was read out after dinner. It was nice to listen to what everyone was thankful for and to share our stories.

My four roommates and I took some time to appreciate and share our thanks for this amazing opportunity we have been given here in the states. We are now nearing the half way mark as Christmas approaches and have individually experienced and learned so much, met so many brilliant people and visited lots of exciting places so far. We are extremely thankful to everyone who has helped and guided us along the way in this American adventure.

After a well needed slouch on the sofa, dessert was served! Ketty's mother in-law, chief pie maker, had baked six delicious pies, two pumpkin, two blueberry and two apple. I opted for pumpkin, it was soooOO tasty (must get my hands on the recipe!). The pies were devoured and long after we said our goodbyes and headed for the train.

A special day at the Rosenfeld's!

Visitors at Kinross Road

This week has been extremely quiet at Kinross Road as we said our goodbyes to our Scottish visitors on Monday morning. Last week my parents traveled from Scotland to visit and spend some time getting to know the place I have been calling home for the past 5 months. Only staying for 4 days, their visit was short but definitely sweet. It was really nice to show them what I've been getting up to since I took the plunge and moved to the States in July.

Quincy Market, November 2013

I assumed the role of 'tour guide' for the entire weekend taking my parents all across Boston and showing them the spectacular sights of this city. Having checked the forecast we had anticipated a very chilly weekend, however, we were pleasantly surprised to be walking around without jackets and even having lunch alfresco! In the evenings we were glad to have a comfy hotel room to relax and rest our tired feet.

We had 4 delicious meals in different restaurants around Boston each night - traditional American food at Joe's and Apple Bee's, Italian in the North End and Japanese at Pho Basil. It was a difficult task to pick a restaurant, which my dad had left in my trusted hands, as Boston has an incredibly large variety and number of restaurants dotted all over the city. It was my roommate Murray's birthday on the Thursday and so we all went out on Newbury St. to Joe's American Bar and Grill. I opted for the fish sandwich and, my new love, sweet potato fries (Picture below). It was a great opportunity for my mum and dad to meet the four Scottish interns I have been living with.

We had a fantastic weekend and I am now even more excited for my sister to visit in March next year so that I can play 'tour guide' again! 

Helping the Community through Service Learning

Today, a few of my colleagues and I attended an event which recognised the hard work of students on the American Classroom program who took part in 'service learning' throughout their fall semester. Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities. This initiative gives students a chance to develop their skills and experience while simultaneously addressing the concerns of  communities. Students are able to use what they have learned/are learning in their classrooms and apply to real life situations.

Service learning is an excellent way for international students to become familiar with their new communities in which they live and make a difference within that community. These students are able to create a diverse perspective on an issue within the community and then give back to the community by providing their services. This could be in a classroom environment, for example, teaching school children English as a second language.

At the event students spoke proudly about their experiences while on their service learning placements and displayed posters around the room describing their projects and issues they focused on. Their speeches were thoughtful and interesting and I thoroughly enjoyed hearing each student's inspiring story. These types of events are great opportunities to applaud the tremendous efforts and commitments that these Northeastern young professionals display while working for established businesses in the community.

Happy Halloweeeeeen!

Our office is getting into the spirit of Halloween this week with spooky decorations and lots of sweet treats dotted around. We took part in a pumpkin decorating event where my colleagues and I voted for the best/most scary looking pumpkin.... we also gorged on countless handfuls of sweets and chocolate. Isn't that what Halloween is all about anyway? We all received a mini pumpkin gift as well. Who say's Thursday afternoons in the office were dull?!

 My little Northeastern Pumpkin!

 Our pumpkins.

Sweet Halloween treats in shops around Boston.

It was our mission to experience a true 'American style' Halloween while in the states, after all we are only here for one Halloween. We bought four large pumpkins at Haymarket and spent the evening carving them and making pumpkin soup with the insides. We also attended a Halloween party at my roommates' colleagues' house dressed in our spooky costumes. Good fun was had by all and it was definitely a night to remember.

 

SpooOOoky Zombies

American's certainly know how to celebrate Halloween!

Boston Strong

Throughout the streets of Boston there are numerous tributes to those who were injured or tragically lost their lives during the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15th, 2013. The Boston Marathon is a huge part of every Bostonian calendar. The annual event takes place on patriots day and is the world's oldest annual marathon. The event attracts spectators in their thousands, approximately 50,000 each year gather on the streets of Boston to show their support for family and friends running the marathon.

3 people were killed and an estimated 264 were injured in April's explosions. Boylston Street was turned into a mass crime scene and there was wide spread panic and fear among spectators. This tragic event has brought Boston's community together showing their respect and support for the victims of the attack. The logo for Boston Strong is plastered over trains, shop windows, newspapers, bus stops and so on. 

 Boylston Street Memorial.

It has been interesting for me to walk through the streets and take in all the tributes and support for the 'Boston Stong' appeal. I sat at home in Scotland watching this news unflod on Sky News in April feeling slightly anxious as I was due to fly out to Boston a few months later and thinking why Boston... just my luck.

Ribbons tied on a railing on Boylston Street with messages showing respect and support for the victims of the attacks.

BOSTON STRONG!

The Power of Social Media

The use of social media, Facebook, twitter and blog forums have become such a huge part of our every day lives. It's hard to imagine life without them nowadays. The 'iPhone trend' has grown significantly in the past few years and people are able to stay connected and network 24/7 on their smart phones, tablets and laptops.

Social media is an effective and powerful marketing tool and is integrated into so many business' marketing strategies. Companies are able to reach a world wide audience by advertising their brand on a Facebook or twitter profile or on their own website. This can have many advantages for the company. A much wider audience can be targeted in the hope of eventually creating a world wide presence. Creating a profile on different social media items allows a company to describe their product/brand with pictures, written information, videos etc. creating their own image and 'personality'.

Northeastern's website facilitates communication with students from all over the world. We also have several other social media platforms creating a huge online social network connecting students, staff and alumni.

The two programs that I work with have Facebook pages which are used as a method of student recruitment. Our Facebook page allows us to advertise our programs and highlight exciting upcoming events and opportunities. This helps to increase awareness of Global Pathways and American Classroom. Students are able to stay connected with each other and staff members 24/7.

Glasgow Caledonian University Global - NYC Campus Opens!

Glasgow Caledonian University is expanding it's presence across the globe. Last month over 200 guests joined Chancellor Yunas at a reception to celebrate the opening of our GCU campus in New York.

This is an excellent opportunity for the university and opens so many world wide connections, networks opportunities for students. GCU will be able to work closely with partners in NYC creating an impact academically and socially.

We have recently booked a trip to New York in December, I am hoping to make a visit to our new GCU campus.

Global connections!

'America Runs on Dunkin'

Monday morning. As I type this blog post I am sitting on the train with VERY sleepy eyes on my way into work. ZZzzzzzzzz..... The 6:15AM alarm calls during the week have been tough over the past 3 months. When it comes to the weekend I try my best to sleep in to catch up on some sleep. Although, we are always cramming as much into our weekends as possible and so this sometimes proves difficult!

One thing that helps perk me up in the mornings is a Dunkin coffee... Medium hot black please! Until now I have always really disliked the taste of coffee, but, ever since I've moved to the states I drink coffee daily. I'm becoming more American as the days go by!

'America runs on Dunkin.'

Week-long Birthday Bash in Boston!

I celebrated my twentieth birthday in Boston 2 weeks ago. As I was away from home and this was my first birthday without my twin sister my roommates helped to make it a very special and memorable day. On the eve of my birthday, when returning from a work out at the gym I was surprised with a huge birthday cake, presents and the apartment all decorated for my birthday. Who says you can't celebrate your birthday 24 hours in advance???

The nicest cake I have EVER tasted!

On the day of my birthday I spent it working away in the office. I received many birthday wishes and treats throughout the day from my kind colleagues and I was treated to lunch with a few of the other interns. I also recieved a delivery from home which made the day extra special.

New friends and food!

On the Friday evening I spent the night dining with my roommates on Newbury Street at a lovely restaurant called Sonsie. It was deeeeeeeeeeeelicious!

Birthday Dinner at Sonsie.

http://sonsieboston.com/flash/

The following day we set off early for 6 Flags, a theme park in New England. A day filled with lots of fun with friends.

 

6 Flags - Before we were soaked on the water ride!

To round off my week-long birthday celebrations we went to see a Boston Red Sox Vs New York Yankees game. The atmosphere at Fenway Park was incredible. It was amazing to see so many passionate fans show their support for their team in true American fashion.

 

Sporting our Boston Red Sox T-shirts.

My days of being a teenager are well and truly over.
Time to embrace my twenties!

"The world is too intersting to ignore" - President Joseph E. Aoun

Northeastern University has a high number of global connections - in 171 cities, 91 countries and 7 continents to be precise. The university's legacy is spreading and it's impact is being felt across the entire planet. Northeastern's students are globe-trotting and gaining international experience in companies around the world though the university's International Co-op program. This programe helps students connect with over 2,900 companies in different countries to give them access to incredible opportunities working, studying and researching. 

Students are faced with the challenge of starting a new job in a different country to their own. As students overcome these challenges they become internationally competent, culturally aware and gain a new confidence and awareness of living and working in a new environment. I can definitely say that i have faced many challenges adapting to life in America, however, I can also say that I have found confidence in being able to overcome these challenges and have became extremely comfortable in a culturally diverse environment. 


Below is a video that a Northeastern student made about her international co-op experience in Kenya.

One of the most amazing things about doing my internship abroad is being able to explore the other side of the world. There is so much I want to do and so many places I want to see... and one day I hope to have done and seen it ALL!

Perks of the Job

One of the main aspects I love about of my job at Northeastern is working with the international students. Having a customer service background, i thoroughly enjoy meeting new people and hearing their different stories. Part of my job involves receptionist work on the front desk. This gives me an excellent opportunity to talk with the students as they come in to the office to seek advice from their advisers. It helps that I too am a student as I am able to relate well to them and share my experiences at university with them. This is particularly beneficial when new students arrive at Northeastern and the whole 'university experience' all seems rather daunting.

I recently attended a reception to congratulate students who successfully passed their courses at Northeastern. As well as being part of the team on the day of the reception, meeting and greeting students and staff members, I also helped organise the whole event from the catering to the venue reservations. It was nice to see students gain recognition for all their hard work and commitment throughout their time on their courses.

Niagra Falls!

We took a trip out of state to see one of the most spectacular sights in the world, Niagra Falls. We began our trip, slightly tired, very early on the Saturday morning where we boarded our tour bus to the Falls. The journey was long and our tour guide kept us entertained throughout the journey telling us about the history of the area we were travelling to.

We experienced the intensity of the falls when we rode the maid of the mist boat which took us right into the heart of the waterfall. It was trully breathtaking and we got soaked!!

We got the opportunity to return to the falls in the evening to see it lit up by the Canadian sky line. It was an incredible view.

En route home we made a stop at 1000 Islands where we took a boat trip around the islands. At one point we crossed the Candian border - the only point you can enter Canada without a passport.

While working in the states we are keen to explore and travel to see as many new places as we can.

Niagra Falls - CHECK!

Surviving September 1st...

The weekend we had been dreading/SO looking forward to had arrived!!...SEPTEMBER 1st! A.k.a the day near enough everyone in Boston moves across town to new apartments and this year my roommates and I were joining the trend. We had been warned that the streets of Boston would be manic this weekend as everyone attempts to relocate around Boston in removal vans. We thankfully weren't moving far and had the task of moving our things upstairs to our newer and bigger apartment.

Our day started at 7:00AM bright and early and we began moving boxes, taking apart beds (and building them again!), cleaning floors, scrubbing furniture and sorting through bags of trash. We were on our feet the whole day getting our new apartment organised.

At night when we sat down with a take out and a movie and breathed an almighty sigh of relief!

Finally settled into #2 Kinross!

Road trippin' weekend in Vermont

After work on a rainy August Friday we took a trip to Vermont. This was a fantastic relaxing weekend for us to chill out and recharge our batteries after a busy week at work. We traveled by car and arrived at the Killington Grand Hotel that evening.

I was excited to return to the hotel i spent a week in back in 2008 with my high school on a skiing holiday. Boy did it look different!!! I barely recognised it without the snow and busy slopes cramped with adventurous skiers and snow-boarders. The ski slopes had not one single flake of snow on them and there was a peaceful calmness around the hotel. Very refreshing after driving from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We spent our Saturday lying by the pool catching some rays (and some ZzzZzZzzzzz), hiking along the slopes and then ended our day with a delicious meal at the hotel.

En route home we stopped in Manchester where we spent the afternoon shopping and spending our hard earned dolllllaaaa!

Brilliant weekend!

An International University

Working at Northeasten University Global i am surrounded by so many different nationalities and cultures. Every day i speak to a diverse array of people learning a bit about their cultures. In todays ever changing society it is vital to have the abilty to adapt and understand different cultures and ways of life.

Recently we have been preparing for our next intake of keen students to join NU Global for the fall semester. We have to promote our programe to students across the world in order to keep numbers maintained or improved in the hope of giving as many international students as possible an opportubity to study at NU. Always looking to the future!

I recently undertook a project where i identified high schools in China that our international students came from who were high achievers throughout their programe Global Pathways or American Classroom. This was in order to identify the best areas to visit on a promotional tour in China. Marketing is highly important to increase awareness of the programs offered at NU Global. We strive to stay global and diverse at Northeastern. 

Food, food and more food!

A colleague said to me a few weeks ago "You can't stay skinny while working for Northeastern!". I am now beginning to believe this. I have sampled such a variety of amazing foods while working here from thai cuisine to traditional american....and i have loved it!

During staff meetings, conferences and events catering is always provided creating a friendly, informal and welcoming atmosphere for employees. Food makes people HAPPY!

"Food brings people together on many different levels. It's nourishment of the soul and body; it's truly love."

Free Bagel Thursdays

Every Thursday our building has free bagels and fruit for breakfast... great way to start a Thursday morning. There is every kind of bagel you could imagine and so many toppings to chose from... I have to come in early on a Thursday so i have enough time to choose my perfect bagel. Last week's was a golden syrup and pecan bagel with a strawberry and creme cheese filling.

 

Deeeeeelishhhh.

 

Self Development and Experiential Learning on placement at Northeastern

I have already experienced and learned a vast amount while interning at Northeastern. I have only been working at NU Global for a month and a half yet I have been given many tasks and projects to complete which have all taught me something different and have given me an opportunity to develop my skills and experience in a business environment.

As it is summer our office has not been as busy which has given me an excellent chance to get up to speed on all my daily responsibilities and become familiar with the different programs and data bases that I will be using over the next year. I am beginning to feel quite settled and comfortable in my office surroundings.

During my first few weeks I was asked to lead a presentation describing the cooperative/collaborative relationship between my university, Glasgow Caledonian University, and Northeastern University to a large number of faculty members from NU Global. This was, at first, a slightly daunting task as I felt under enormous pressure to do well and impress my new colleagues and supervisor. I had the honor of presenting with Ketty Rosenfeld, a highly inspirational woman, who works in the International Coop Office at Northeastern.  It was interesting to listen to Ketty's story about the GCU and NU relationship and where it began. Several years ago Ketty initiated this successful, cooperative relationship between both universities and now each year several students from GCU travel across the Atlantic to intern at Northeastern and experience life in the USA and many students from Northeastern have ventured to various locations in the UK to study or intern. I'm learning so much about this amazing University working for Northeastern and so this presentation gave me the chance for my colleagues to learn a bit about my university and my home country, Scotland. I was given very positive feedback and my supervisor was extremely pleased with how I conducted my first presentation. This gave me a confidence boost and a drive to aim higher and achieve all that I can during my time at NU.

This year will definitely be a learning curve for me. Without an opportunity to go out on placement, I would be completing a university course with 4 years of theory instead of three and a one year placement. It's not until you're actually out on placement you realise there are so many benefits and rewards of going on a year's industrial placement. It is definitely a fundamental self development experience. I couldn't possibly learn in a classroom what I am learning on placement - these life experiences can't be taught in a classroom!

My Role at Northeastern University Global

I have now been working at Northeastern University (NU) for over a month. My job is based in the NU Global offices which are located a 15 minute walk away from the main campus by the reflecting pool. It is a pleasure to walk to work every morning with this amazing view. 

Reflecting Pool & NU Global Office 

As an Academic Support Assistant for GPAC - Global Pathways and American Classrooms - I assist in the regular operational efforts at NU Global, specifically for the Global Pathways and American Classroom programs.  My responsibilities include organising events, coordinating projects, organising and invigilating TOEFL exams and general office duties including data entry, document deliveries, faxes, copying, typing, shredding, and filing. 

The two programs that I work closely with are English preparation courses for international students.

'The Global Pathways Program offers specialized areas of academic study, intensive English language training, and academic skills preparation. You can concentrate your studies in one of three areas: Business and Social Sciences; Engineering, Math and Computer Science; and Physical and Life Sciences. Upon your successful completion of the program, you are admitted to your chosen undergraduate or graduate degree program.'

'American Classroom is an innovative transitional experience for international students who are looking for advanced English language preparation and an introduction to the American education system and college culture. This program is an excellent start to your American university studies and provides a comprehensive academic and cultural experience designed to help you succeed at Northeastern University and improve your English language skills.'

Northeastern University is an extremely globally and culturally diverse university. NU hosts over 6,500 international students and scholars from 140 different nations across the world.These programs (Global Pathways & American Classroom) are fundamental in aiding international student success and so my assistance role at NU Global is highly important to ensure that they run seamlessly. 

The GPAC team:

First Month in the States

A month has passed since I arrived in Boston, USA... and what a month it has been!

My first week was filled with lots of organising from sorting my bank account and setting up my mobile phone to meeting with my new boss and exploring my new home city. My two room mates, Diane and Amy, helped me with everything during my the first few weeks to help me get settled quickly. I think one my biggest challenges was finding my way about the city without getting lost. All I can say is thank goodness for GPS!

During my first week I experienced and celebrated my first 4th of July in America -  an experience to remember! BBQ, amazing food, a concert at the Hatch Shell and a spectacular firework display. Such an incredible atmosphere through the streets of Boston as everyone celebrated Independence day. It was great to be a part of it.

 

We have been saying goodbye to the GCU interns who have just completed their year in Boston. It was sad to see them leave as we've all became great friends over the past few weeks.They have all had the experience of a life time and have a year's worth of stories and memories to take back to Scotland.

July has been a busy fun-filled month. I am keen to make the most of every single day in Boston. I am learning and experiencing so much every day at work at Northeastern university and meeting lots of inspiring people and at the weekends we are exploring all that this amazing city has to offer.....

Visited Franklin Park Zoo.

An evening at the clay house painting our new mugs for the office.

Dick's Last Resort Restaurant. 

Relaxing Saturday at the Lake house. Swimming, canoeing, BBQs, friends and delicious food.

Free Friday Flicks @ the Hatch Shell. Relaxing after a busy week at work.

 

Revere Beach Sand Sculpture Festival. Impressive sand sculptures built along the beach front - so talented.

Summer in Boston so far has been brilliant. I am looking forward to the months ahead! 

HELLO BOSTON!

Last Tuesday I touched down in Logan Airport, Boston MA beginning my twelve months in the States (feeling slightly less nervous than expected).

I was warmly welcomed at the airport by my two friends, Amy and Diane, two of the other interns from GCU who have already been in Boston for three weeks. The girls were carrying a large colourful poster saying 'WELCOME TO BOSTON' and so I managed to spot them among the bustling crowd of people waiting to welcome their loved ones at the arrivals gate.

We headed for the T (Boston's public transport system) and made our way to our apartment and new home for the next year. When we settled down, I fell asleep as soon as my head touched the pillow. Exhausted.

I HAVE ARRIVED!

London

Last week we ventured down to the big smoke to attend an appointment at the US Embassy for our Visas.

We traveled down on a sleeper bus (which was an interesting experience to say the least!) on the Tuesday evening from Buchanan Bus Station and arrived at London Victoria at 6.30am on the Wednesday morning. We were welcomed by grey skies and misty rain - not the weather we had hoped for! The weather, however, didn't dampen our spirits and, with jackets on and hoods up, we set off to explore the sights of London.

   

Big Ben - London

From window shopping on Oxford Street to getting lost in history at The Natural History Museum - after 18 hours on the go we were very thankful for a comfy bed and hot shower at night. We attended the Embassy the following day and everything went smoothly. After 3 looonnnnggg hours our Visa applications were approved!

On the ride home I reflected on the short amount of time I had spent in London. London is a very exciting and extremely fast paced city with a constant buzz through it's busy streets. I love this city! Although, I couldn't help but notice that people always seem to be in a rush - there is no such thing as a casual walk in London! Packed like a herd of sheep being guided through the tube stations, I saw literally hundreds of frantic commuters rushing here, there and everywhere - the majority with earphones in or their head stuck in the morning's paper.


With our Visas sorted, we are now one step closer to beginning our exciting adventure in BOSTON!!!!

Time is Ticking.

In just over 3 months I will be settling in to my new job,  new home and new surroundings at the other side of the pond in Boston Massachusetts (if all goes to plan!). Although this is a scary thought, I am excited to get started and begin my Boston adventure!

Planning our move to America for a year is taking a great deal of time and preparation. From organising accommodation and signing contracts to arranging our visas, we have certainly been very busy bees the past few months. We have had to stay on top of our university studies as well and complete countless course work assignments and various other deadlines alongside our individual work commitments. Luckily for us the planning and organising for our year in the States has been made a lot easier with the help of the three lovely  interns who are already in Boston. Fortunately we are able to move into the apartment the girls have been renting for the past year and so we have not had to endure the task of hunting for apartments around Boston. The four of us will be moving into the apartment in July... Definitely seems like an appropriate time to learn how to cook! The apartment in Brighton is an hour from our work, Northeastern University. We will have to get used to the hour long commute to work on the T every morning (or walk if the sun is shining!).

Excited to start work at NU!

I have visited Boston once before on a skiing trip when I was at high school. We ventured up to Killington for a week of snow and freeeeezing cold temperatures. We spent only a few days in Boston and I have always been keen to return to explore the rest of this wonderful city. There is so much Boston has to offer and I have full intentions to make the most of my time there... after all, a year is not that long! I am glad that my good friend Amy is one of the interns who will be joining me in the States along with Murray and Bunty. Being able to share this amazing experience with friends will make it even more enjoyable. I am sure we will meet many new faces and friends along the way too.

Boston, Massachusetts - Hoping to experience some weather like this!

Now all I have is the small task of traveling down to London for my VISA. Amy and I are hoping to travel down together and of course fit in some shopping on Oxford Street (It would be rude not to!). Then we are ready to take on  Boston!! 

I am extremely lucky to have been given this amazing opportunity with Northeastern University and I know I will gain so much from my year's industrial placement in the States. I am looking forward to meeting my supervisor Francis and the rest of the team at NU Global.

My one-way flight is booked. 

On the 2nd of July, 2013 I will begin my Boston Adventure!

Offered the job in the US!!!

As part of my degree BA Business Studies I am required to complete a third year industrial placement in a company of my choice. This will be an excellent opportunity to experience the industry first hand, develop my skills and qualifications and meet new people.

I found out about an opportunity in Northeastern University in Boston Ma, USA. I was keen to do my placement abroad to experience work and life in a different country.
I applied and was later offered three interviews...  and a few days later I was offered one of the positions as part of the NU Global team.

I am extremely excited to start my placement and experience life in Boston with 3 more caley students!