What inspired you to work for iXperience?
I love education that inspires students to get out of their comfort zone and grow through personal development. Equally, I think that the world of technology needs a stronger integration of ethical questioning and analytical thinking, and that's what our educational philosophy encompasses.
Learning Virtual Reality
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
I studied politics, philosophy and economics, and I find that the combination of ethical philosophy and rational thinking is powerful - and I am able to apply this combination in our courses. I have lived, worked and travelled in a number of countries around the world, and so I understand first-hand how powerful the combination of learning and interning in a new culture is.
What are some current projects you are working on?
We're currently building a new course that combines interdisciplinary global studies with our technology and skills development courses. We're working closely with the University of Virginia on this.
iXperience students play soccer on Camps Bay
What is the iXperience mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
Our mission is to create journeys of growth that unlock our students' potential. We think about this mission every time we craft a new course, or hire our teachers. How will we make sure our students are growing into their full potential?
How do you help support participants?
We have a strong system of support that includes access to a clinical psychologist, as well as immediate access to every individual member of our staff. Long before students depart their home country, we put them into 'Pal' groups, led by a member of our staff, so that they can ask any questions they might have and receive personal answers. These 'Pal' groups continue their meetups once the students arrive, so that they immediately have a group of friends and familiar names and faces to help them settle in.
Study on Table Mountain
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means not simply following blindly a list of suggested things to do in each country, but rather interacting intentionally with locals. Greet each person as a human first, before asking them travel directions or ordering from a menu. Put your electronic devices away, be still, and absorb the sights and sounds around you.
Why do you think it is important for students to study or intern abroad?
Learning and personal development happen best when students are out of their comfort zone, and open to new cultures, experiences, and people. In this way, students are able to unlock their potential more fully when they're studying and interning abroad.
iXperience students on Lion's Head
Did you study or intern abroad? If yes, what did the experience teach you?
Yes, I studied and worked abroad for many years. This taught me cultural flexibility, and the ability to work in global teams. It taught me that humans are humans the world over, and to celebrate both our differences and our similarities.
Why should students consider iXperience over other study or intern abroad providers?
We believe that learning happens best in small classrooms where student numbers are capped and where teachers take an interest in each individual student's learning and progression.
What would you tell someone who is on the fence about going abroad?
Going abroad is one of the most mind-broadening and personal development experiences that anyone can embark upon.
