Life lessons from a co-op experience

trevor.kenney — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:28:48 +0000

A U of L education doesn't just take place within the walls of classrooms. This past summer U of L management student Fiona Geldreich learned that first hand during a co-op placement in Botswana, Africa.

Geldreich was one of the more than 20 students selected to receive funding from ConocoPhillips Canada Inc. to head out on worldwide placements.

While in Botswana, she worked with Somarelang Tikologo - Environmental Watch Botswana (ST), an organization involved in many environmental projects including the operation of the only recycling centre in the

Fiona Geldreich, a U of L management student, picked up life experience first hand during a co-op placement in Botswana, Africa

country, a community organic gardening program, a playground made from recycled materials and an income generating Green Shop that sells locally-made products from recycled materials, in turn providing economic empowerment for women.

During her time in Africa, Geldreich was forced outside her comfort zone and faced multiple cultural challenges including issues such as appropriate dress, the widespread AIDS/HIV situation and language barriers.

"I was exposed to a new culture and a dynamic work environment. As a result, I became a more confident individual," Geldreich reflects.

Taking what she had learned at the U of L, Geldreich applied textbook theory to real-life situations while serving as a PR and fundraising volunteer for ST. During the four-month term, she developed inventory databases for the Green Shop, implemented new marketing strategies and made presentations to local schools.

"It was the best experience of my life. My time in Botswana will always remain close to my heart and has inspired me to continue taking risks whether they be personal or professional," Geldreich says. "I would do the whole thing over again in a second!"

UNews - Fiona Geldreich

Life lessons from a co-op experience

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