After that last post, I do not want you all to think that I am not working hard here, so I thought I should follow that up with a report on my work at the University of Western Cape (UWC).
First and foremost, I must say how nice and welcoming everyone has been here at the University, within my first two weeks of being here, I have managed to conduct informational interviews with each department head within the Center for Student Support Services. This not only provided a great orientation to the campus, but allowed me to get to know the team, their work and their students. Additionally, it allowed me to identify projects that will keep me occupied over the semester.
There are more potential projects or interest areas here than one person could ever hope to experience. That said, I am only one person, so I have identified four primary projects and am filling in any time gaps by participating in other opportunities and interest areas. My four projects include:
1. Student Activities: Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE)--This is a student organization which teaches entreprenuership as well as good citizenship all at the same time.
2. Office of Student Development (Career Services)--I am working with national survey data to write a report for the office, helping with Student Representative Council (SRC) elections and gaining an understanding about the University Business Challenge-a national competition for students.
3. International Office--I am working on a research project regarding the
internationalization of tertiary (higher) education in South Africa.
4. Residential Life/Academic Support Services--Living-Learning Community Development. I am working on the development team to create a new living-learning community ready for enrollment for the January 2011 term.
Other projects include, understanding the philosophy and major concerns of the Therapuetic Services Department (Counseling Center), engaging with the Emerging and Advanced Leaders Programs, as well as the RAGS, Emotional EQ and Career Development Programs.
My days are non-stop both physically and mentally and it is great to be in such an energetic and engaging setting. I will update the blog as the projects progress. For now that is a big picture view of my time here!
That sounds like a lot of great stuff to work on! Greg and I lived in a living-learning community dorm at UW-Madison which was a lot of fun. Glad to hear you're doing well :) -Amy P.
ReplyDeleteThe projects sound rewarding and exciting and we look forward to future postings with updates. We have to say, though, we found the description of your weekend at the beach and the foods you tasted to be absolutely d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s !!! It felt like we were right there enjoying them with you. Have to run ... we think we hear Ferch's calling :) Love, Kathy and Dad
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