| Abstrakt: |
Applied international experiences benefit students in many ways and possibly contribute to skills deemed important by employers. The objective of this study was to determine specific skillsets gained by undergraduate students during an applied equine international experience from both student and employer perspectives. Eight students were selected to conduct horse management seminars in an international setting. Students completed a preflection where they reported experience with a new culture, becoming more global and marketable, communication skills, credibility and responsibility as useful components of the impending trip. A student reflection suggested communication, problem solving and teamwork as the top skills enhanced as a result of the international experience. Current employers of graduated students who participated in the trip reported that those employees were good team players, possessed excellent public speaking skills, worked well in a diverse group and were good problem solvers. An applied international equine program had student and employer perceived advantages for soft skill development and enhancement. International programs offer varied experiences to students; a more concrete description of the advantages of applied international programming would be useful to assist job seekers with illustrating the benefits of an international experience and support university programs when justifying and promoting international programming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
