When most people think of computer science majors, they picture us hunched over laptops in dimly lit rooms, but here I am in sunny Melbourne, Australia! My name is Calvin, and I chose to do an internship through the GEO GlobalWorks program for several reasons. One being my mom, who worked in international education for AFS, an exchange program. She passed away from brain cancer when I was young. She spoke constantly about the transformative power of international experience. Being here feels like honoring her memory while making my own track (it's what they call the paths and trails here).
I chose Australia for a mix of practical and personal reasons. Coming from Portland's gray skies, I craved the sunshine but I also wanted a technical internship in a city where I could actually imagine living.
To prepare, I brushed up on backend web development tools. I also knew that my internship would be partially remote, so I would need to be intentional about making friends. I've joined a local run club and a surf club, which have become vital outlets alongside the friends I've made through the program.
The transition here had its challenges, as all transitions do. For example, my phone didn't work initially, making navigation a challenge. Despite that, living abroad as a computer science major isn't just possible, it's life-changing. I'm building a global community, gaining technical skills, and living the adventure my mom always dreamed of for me.
Calvin Peck Dobson, Diverse Ducks Ambassador
GlobalWorks International Internship in Melbourne, Australia