Why did you choose this program?
Having the intention to grow as a professional through international work experience and byways an opportunity extended through my university, I was able to accomplish all that I had originally set out to do and more within the landscape of Cambodia thanks to MCO. The company’s transparency and consideration of my professional goals also played a role in me saying my final yes to the program.
It’s not often when a chance to embark on an experience like this shows up and it was one that has proven itself to be a worthwhile investment.
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
Throughout the pre-departure process, I was assisted in gathering and filling out proper pre-placement and emergency contact forms, a brief orientation on living and working overseas, and other tips regarding how to make the most out of the experience living overseas. Airport pickup, living accommodations for the full six months, as well as the internship placement (and having my credentials sent off to employers prior to an interview) were all included in the program’s package.
Assistance did not include the purchase of round trip tickets, visa application fees, pre-departure immunizations and medications, as well as various other travel-related and personal expenses acquired for the trip.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
One of the biggest things I would implore the individual embarking on this experience would be to learn as much of the language as you can.
Although English is widely spoken and despite the fact that I was able to get by on a few greetings and common phrases when situations called for it, not taking more time to pick up on as much of the language is one of my biggest regrets. The city offers quite a few free language exchange classes and meet-ups where you can brush up on your skills and share your own with both the local and ex-pat community. If consistent, getting a grasp on the basic conversation is fairly easy to do and will add another enriching layer to your experience!
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
The average workweek is very comparable to life back home and spanned the standard Monday through Friday, 9 to 5 routine. Luckily, the company that I worked for allowed the flexibility to work remotely two days out of the week in which coffee shops and other coworking spaces were frequented. Once the bustle of the day was completed, I was free to enjoy exploring the city’s thriving food scene, taking walks on the Riverside, or hitting up one of the many colorful markets for some retail therapy.
With Cambodia being in such close proximity to places such as Vietnam, Thailand and various other beautiful Southeast Asian countries, the weekends become the perfect playground for a weekend getaway filled with some extra R&R and adventure!
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
Prior to landing, one of my biggest apprehensions was how I would be able to adjust. Traveling solo as an African-American woman, I wasn't quite sure what the atmosphere would be and I couldn't find much information covering the matter while doing research online beforehand.
After living there for some time, there will always be teachable moments. Overall, however, I have been invited into a warm and welcoming community, whether sharing a laugh with a tuk-tuk driver or befriending a new neighbor.
I can't stress enough for any person that is hesitant to embark on this program or one similar must embrace those uncomfortable moments as a stimulus for growth and dive in fully. As long as mutual respect is involved, you'd be surprised at just what connections can be formed, language barriers and all.
Is there any other advice for prospective travelers?
Budgeting will become your new best friend, especially being that cash is the most common form of payment for this location. The fairly affordable prices for food, market shopping, entertainment, and travel can easily add up if you’re not paying attention.
Although it more than likely won't be a problem, commit to a habit of setting aside a stash within a budget that will enable you to enjoy the fullest experience possible.
