Students share what they’re most looking forward to about their International/Indigenous Course Modules.
Many people see Reading Week as a time to catch up with family and friends — or Netflix — before exam season begins. But nearly 80 undergraduate students from the Faculty of Arts & Science will use their time off from classes at U of T to travel abroad to study topics ranging from ancient Egyptian cultural development to Islamic civil society.
Opportunities like these exist through the Faculty of Arts & Science’s International/Indigenous Course Module (ICM) program. Participating students develop practical experience on topics covered in their undergraduate courses abroad over Reading Week.
Next week, groups will travel to:
- Ecuador’s Yasuni National Park
- England
- Greece
- Indonesia
- Ohio, U.S.A.
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Rwanda
We asked some of the participating students what they’re most looking forward to. Here’s what they said.
Iceland
The group travelling to Reykjavik, Iceland will complete a human resource consulting assignment with small organizations, comparing the process to that in Toronto.
“I’m really excited to be introduced to a whole new culture and learn about how Icelandic people live, work and enjoy their lives. Our professor is offering a wonderful opportunity for us to gain valuable perspective while we take on the role of HR consultants in Iceland.”
— Carol Farah, a fourth-year student at St. Michael’s College doing a double major in Psychology and Employment Relations
“We’re meeting with the Canadian embassy and a human resources professional working at Iceland’s largest bank. I’m very excited and curious to hear about their experiences. I like learning through travelling.”
— Mandi Wang, a fourth-year student at Woodsworth College majoring in Economics and specializing in Employment Relations and Human Resources
“I’m looking forward to seeing how culture impacts the way organizations are run in Iceland. It’s such a unique opportunity to apply the theories we’re learning in class in the field, especially in another country.”
— Keshini Mahesan, a fourth-year student at Trinity College doing a double major in International Relations and Employment Relations
Greece
The group travelling to Greece will observe major health concerns, currently magnified by the double burden of the economic crisis and ongoing influx of migrants fleeing war in the Middle East.
“Along with viewing the architecture that carries deep historical significance, I’m looking forward to analyzing how the economic and refugee crisis has impacted the health and infrastructure of present-day Greece.”
— Shameemah Khan, a fourth-year student at Woodsworth College doing a double major in Global Health and Health Studies
“There’s a large gap between what’s reported and what’s actually happening. I hope that by meeting with various agencies and politicians in Greece, I’ll see that gap close.”
— Monica Brundage, a third-year student at Victoria College majoring in Global Health