Alumni Interview with Kimberley Maessen

What inspired you to go abroad?

I always enjoyed traveling and exploring new countries, which was also the main reason for choosing to study tourism.

Why did you choose Nullarbor Traveller by Australian Wildlife Adventures?

I choose to do my 20 week tourism internship at Nullarbor Traveller as I had my heart set on traveling to Australia and I liked the diversity of what this particular internship was offering.

What was your favorite part about Port Kenny, Australia?

I enjoyed the fact that my host city (Port Kenny) was out in the country and not a big city. I loved the vast majority of different landscapes that I experienced during my travels on the tours from Adelaide to Perth, and the beautiful beaches nearby that you just had to yourself.

What made your experience abroad unique?

What made experience abroad unique, is the fact that I also became part of the family! As the business was located so remotely, I moved in with my 'boss' and his family. You weren't just an employee, you became a part of the family. You joined them to local footy matches, went shopping, etc. We still keep in touch and try and catch-up where possible. I still consider them my extended family here in Australia.

How did local staff support you throughout your program?

I found that I received great support during my internship. Whenever I had problems, wasn't sure of something, or even if I was just feeling home sick, they were always ready to help out.

What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?

To be honest I wouldn't want to change anything about my time abroad. I had the best of times and look back at it with very fond memories.

Describe a typical day in the life of your program.

A typical day for me would be to get up in the morning, and start the computers—advantage of sleeping next to the office, never had to go far. I would then have some breakfast and get a cup of coffee, ready to start my work day. It would consist of answering phone calls and emails, processing any new bookings we had received, updating our suppliers about tour groups coming through, liaising with tour guides about their different tours, and helping out if there was problems.

I also worked to make sure the website was kept up to date with the most recent information. It was pretty much helping in every aspect of the business where needed. Whether it was cleaning the hostel, checking in customers for their onsite cabins, or dealing with customer/agent enquiries. Safe to say I really enjoyed the variety and no day was the same!

What did you enjoy doing in your free time?

During my free time we often went to the local footy matches on the weekend or headed down to either Streaky Bay or Port Lincoln for a bit of shopping. I also got to enjoy the different tours and seeing the sights. The property also had their own private beach which was great to visit on a sunny day!

What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?

I got offered room and board with the family as the business was so remote. I absolutely loved this since there was always people around to have a chat with, and I never felt alone during my time spent abroad.

What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?

I think the one thing they certainly need to realize is the remoteness of the location. I think this can certainly be a challenge for some people.

Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?

My time abroad has impacted my life more than I could ever imagine. During my time abroad I met my current boyfriend. I went home to finish my studies and as soon as finished I moved back to Australia. I did my internship back in January 2011 and in September 2012 I moved to Australia and have been a permanent resident for the past two years.

Would you recommend Nullarbor Traveller to others? Why?

Most definitely!!! During my time I gained valuable experience about the tourism industry and being part of a small family business—which is still proving very helpful in my current job nowadays. I think that the experience gained at Nullarbor Traveller has certainly helped me to get my current job.