Nakahiko Okajima, Tokyo, Japan

"I worked for a Human Resources Agency downtown. This program gave me an opportunity to work in an English environment where I could utilize my industry experience. For me, it was a very hard time at first because I should be sure of the projects’ goal, our purpose, but I didn’t have enough communication skill. But now at the end of my placement, I can really work as an employee. And I will never miss to catch any important points from my supervisor. Finally I found that working is a very good way to improve language skills because you have to communicate with your co-workers. And I’m sure every student in placements will do a fantastic job because of their experience in a Canadian working place."       - BIP student

Daichi Tanaka, Japan

 

"I decided to participate in the BIP Program because I wanted to have work experience in an English speaking country. I worked at the campus computer store in Dupuis Hall and I really had a beneficial experience. Needless to say, it was not easy at the beginning to manage my tasks, especially to deal with customers. However, I felt I was improving my English ability especially technical terms. This program is focused on providing students working opportunities in Canada, but at the same time, this program can bring you a lot of benefits. At any rate, this program was more than I expected, so I am satisfied with this program very much."       

- BIP student

Taichi Osaki, Nishinomiya City, Hyogo, Japan

“I took the Business Internship Program and I learned about Business, for example, how to write the resume, mail for business. Other things that I learned were how to build good relationships or solutions to bad or difficult situations. After class, we worked at each workplace as an internship. I worked at Donald Gordon Conference Centre. There were many employees, so I could meet many people and I could experience many fantastic things. And I also could compare culture or working style between Canada and my country. It encouraged me to have different thinking. Now, I am satisfied with this and I feel I could develop myself through this program.”     

- BIP student

Akiko Okumoto, Hyogo, Japan

 

"I spent precious time with classmates and co-workers. In class, I learned North American business culture. In my job placement, I practiced it! The culture in Canada is different from that in Japan, so first I was confused. But as time goes on, I go accustomed to the culture. Once I got accustomed to it, I enjoyed my job placement. I learned not only hard skills like office job, but also soft skills which is more important for business. Also this experience made me think about my future jobs and career. In addition, I made lots of friends in class, the Queen’s residence and job placement. This Business Internship Program will be the best experience for everyone who thinks about their future job."        

- BIP student

Yuhong Li, Shanghai, China

 

“I came to Kingston to learn English in a group from Shanghai. During the 4- week EAP and 12-week BIP, I have improved my listening, reading, spoken and writing skills. I had an internship at the City of Kingston. I’ve learned more about Canadian government, about it’s leadership management and operation. I’ve done some research jobs of the City of Kingston. It’s a good chance for me to compare the Canadian government with the Chinese government and exchange views with Canadian government officials.”      - BIP student

Stephanie Mitchell, City of Kingston, Pan Chancho Bakery

"The internship program is a wonderful program - it gives the community an opportunity to get involved with the University and provide practical means for students to learn English better than classroom time."       - Retail Manager

Julie Einarson, Queen's University, Queen's Executive Development Centre

"Working with the School of English and the team responsible for the Business Internship Program has been a terrific experience. Organizationally, we benefited from the contribution of a gifted and energetic intern, and from her fresh perspective and skills. Personally, I appreciated the structure and communications provided by the School to ensure we were prepared in advance and that we delivered a positive experience for our new team member."        - Director of Operations

Dianne Zemba, City of Kingston, Grand Theatre

“This is our first time having a student intern with the Queen's University School of English. We were a bit hesitant to take on a student who might have some difficulty with English as we are a fast paced environment and felt the responsibility might be too great. We did not want to offer opportunities we might not be able to provide. We decided to give the student a try however, and we couldn't have been more delighted with the results! Our student was a conscientious, hardworking member of our team. He joined in activities, assisted in all levels of management and we as an organization learned from the experience also. I would recommend this program and opportunity to any business.”      - Theatre Manager

Debra Hill, Queen's University, The University Club

"We found this internship experience very rewarding and Yuki has been a pleasure to work with every day. She proved to be a valuable asset to every department. We would definitely be a part of this work experience again."        

- Assistant Manager

Matthew Thomas, City of Kingston, Four Points by Sheraton

“Being able to host an intern from this program has been a rewarding experience for our organization. Associates have worked along side someone who, while learning not only a new position, was also learning of a culture and their language. Her desire to learn and succeed had a positive effect on her colleagues who wanted to help her achieve that success. Thank you for allowing us to take part in this wonderful program!”     

- Assistant Food & Beverage Manager

Anita Boldt, City of Kingston, H'art School of Smiles

 

“Established in 1998, H'art School of Smiles is a registered, charitable, non-profit organization committed to helping adults with intellectual disabilities reach their highest potential through arts and education. Over the past few years H'art School has participated in the Queen's University School of English Business Internship Program. This program has given us the opportunity to work with and befriend some wonderful people and allowed us to share our message internationally. We are always pleased at the high qualiy of participants in this program and the energy and commitment they bring to our school.”     - Education Director