UOIT students to share internship experiences at Toronto conference

When it comes to preparing for a career in business entrepreneurship, one group of students at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) has learned that hands-on, international experience makes, a world of difference. And now, the UOIT students have been invited to take the stage in front of a provincial audience to share some of the highlights of their summer internships in Hong Kong.

“Working in Hong Kong has not only been an amazing experience, but also a great opportunity for personal growth and professional development,” said Michelle Williams, fourth-year UOIT Marketing student (Bachelor of Commerce). “For any future entrepreneur, the knowledge, skills and experience that can be gained from working, studying or at least living abroad, are valuable in broadening global concepts and one’s personal understanding of international business.”   

Williams was one of ten undergraduate students with UOIT’s Faculty of Business and Information Technology (FBIT) who ventured overseas for eight weeks in the summer of 2011 as participants in the Ontario Global Edge Program, an innovative internship opportunity with various start-up companies in the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park.

The UOIT students will share their Ontario Global Edge experiences at an upcoming information session being held at the University of Toronto (U of T) and hosted by Toronto’s Hong Kong Economic Trade Office and various students clubs at U of T. The audience will include guests from the Ministry of Economic Development and Innovation, various industry representatives and students from post-secondary institutions across Ontario. The event entitled Presentation by Ontario Global Edge Program Participants on Internship Experience in Hong Kong will take place on Friday, November 25 at U of T’s Bahan Centre for Information Technology, 40 St. George Street North, Toronto, Ontario from 4 to 7 p.m.

“This is an ideal platform for our students to not only showcase their knowledge about Hong Kong’s economic and cultural profile, but also discuss the entrepreneurial skills they’ve gained through Ontario Global Edge,” said Stephen Rose, associate dean and director of International Programs, FBIT. “Each UOIT participant obtained invaluable personal and professional growth through this opportunity and ultimately they will be better prepared for their careers upon graduation.”

"The Ontario Global Edge experience has left me with an empowering sentiment that my dreams are now my tomorrow,” said Jeremy Abbaterusso, fourth-year Commerce student. “This has opened new doors for me in a global and digitalized society and added to a foundation that will lead my career to endless possibilities."

“I’ve got to say that this was probably one of the most character-building and inspirational adventures anyone could have ever been on,” said Urvil-James Villaruel, fourth-year Marketing student (Bachelor of Commerce). “It almost feels like the gateway to something greater. If possible, everyone should take any opportunity that they can to work and live abroad. Seven thumbs up!”

"It's not every day you get the chance wake up halfway around the world to work for amazing people, to spend your free time exploring temples, trails and cultural wonders,” said Kendall Pigeau, second-year Accounting student (Bachelor of Commerce). “My internship in Hong Kong opened my eyes and mind to global business opportunities that were unknown to me before.” 

“Our students are perfectly suited to make this presentation to other Ontario students who may be considering an internship abroad, especially to those interested in Hong Kong,” said Dr. Pamela Ritchie, dean, FBIT. “UOIT has a lengthy and proud association with the Ontario Global Edge program and over the years many of our faculty’s students have benefited from this outstanding internship opportunity.”