Thanks to #DMUglobal, one lucky De Montfort University (DMU) Leicester Business student had ‘a truly wonderful experience in an amazing country’.
Third year Business and Management student David Ball flew out to Reykjavik for a six-day trip embarking on a fascinating exploration of Iceland.
He chose to visit there this summer after he won £500 of travel vouchers in a prize draw celebrating #DMUglobal’s departure board unveiling, in October 2014.
#DMUglobal is the university’s praised international experience programme, offering students valuable opportunities overseas, in the UK and on campus.
David said: “The experience has allowed me to gain a better understanding and appreciation of a different and unique culture.
“Along with this I learnt a lot about the economic crash of 2008 and the effect it had on Iceland and I will be able to use this in my future studies.”
He added: “I was able to develop my people skills without doubt, as well as my communication skills.”
Each day began with a typical Icelandic breakfast for David, including herring, the country’s famous skyr yoghurt and buttermilk.
He made his way across Iceland, experiencing whale watching, and exploring the Blue Lagoon and the country’s capital Reykjavik.
David’s favourite experience, the Golden Circle tour, took him deep into the country’s geothermal area, where hot springs, or geysers, shoot up to 30 metres into the air.
Reflecting on the beauty of Faxi and Gullfoss waterfalls (pictured) during the tour, he said: “The overall scenery of the geothermal valley of Haukadalur, as well as the waterfalls, live geysers and Pingvellir national park were truly amazing.”
The experience has, for David, opened his eyes up to the possibility of a career overseas: “It has changed my opinion on working abroad as the people of Iceland were genuinely so nice and welcoming.
“I would definitely consider working abroad now in the future – particularly in Iceland!”
He added: “I would 100% recommend taking part in #DMUglobal. It aids the CV, broadens horizons, and offers the opportunity to explore different areas and cultures enabling you to grow as a person.”
Posted on Tuesday 4 August 2015