Newcastle Business School student Carley Denton couldn't believe her luck when she got the chance to study in the US.
The HR Management student is getting set to study Semester 2 of her course at Florida Atlantic University. As the mum-of-four, prepares to move to Florida with her family, she tells her story:
Carley said: “The term 'human resources' originated in America and when I started to research the profession I decided that I'd love the opportunity to work over there in HR at some point.
“I never thought it would be a real possibility but then I discovered the 'Study Abroad' module and was shocked! I attended workshops laid on by the Study Abroad team and asked Francesca Brownless and Adam Hiles lots of questions – I had doubts about whether, as a mature student with a family, I would even be considered. However I left feeling completely encouraged and empowered because of them, so I carried out further research and applied.
“As part of my Personal Development Plan I identified I lack self-confidence, but learned this is one of the main skills gained by people who study abroad. I also learned that many employers will consider candidates who have studied abroad over those who haven’t, so the opportunity appealed even more. “When I found out I had been accepted I was elated to have been given such an opportunity. To be honest it still hasn't completely sunk in!
“To make the most of the experience I have decided to carry out my Year 3 internship placement while I’m in Florida, meaning I’ll have 18 months in total there – six for my course and another year on placement.
“Since I made the decision there has been fantastic support available across the campus. Christine Hopper helped me with my placement search and Ashleigh Wilson from the careers service helped me with my LinkedIn profile and converting my CV to US format.
"My whole family is on board and my husband and children will be coming with me. My husband appreciates the opportunities that will be available to all of us thanks to the Study Abroad team’s advice, and the kids are excited.
“Jay (12) is looking forward to meeting new friends from different backgrounds and hopes to keep in touch with them when we return – he has been learning about different cultures at school in Geography, Citizenship and RE. Jonas (6) says if we have a swimming pool it will be “epic” but doesn’t understand why he has to go to school on what he sees as a long holiday! Josh (11) and Jodi (10) also can’t wait.
“When we get there our plans are simple – enjoy the opportunity to learn, love and laugh. Between studying we have lots of great plans.
“Grandma is funding a trip to Walt Disney World in Florida which is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that would have been unattainable. We plan to enjoy the natural beauty and history of the area and have plans to visit Hannibal Square Heritage Centre which is a tribute to the African-American community. It is important for us to appreciate the cultures of the diverse society we live in today and this is a fundamental part of our plan. Then there’s the Orange County Regional History Centre where we can learn about 12,000 years of Florida history.
“Myself and the whole family will cherish each and every minute and can’t thank the team at Northumbria enough. We’ve bought a good quality camera to capture as many special moments as possible to share with the team and show what we are experiencing thanks to them.
“I really could not have asked for anywhere better than Northumbria University to help me and my family with this chapter of our lives.”
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