FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RFID for the Most Expansive Selection of Training Props in the U.S.
Phoenix, Arizona, _____, 2017 – AB&R® (American Barcode and RFID Inc.), a nationwide provider of proven supply chain solutions, implemented a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) based asset tracking solution for the Volpentest Hazardous Materials Management and Emergency Response (HAMMER) Federal Training Center in Richland, Washington.
The RFID based asset tracking solution includes three RFID Readers at each point of entry, a variety of shaped asset tags for diverse products, and the Zebra RFD8500 to read the RFID tags via Bluetooth on Android or iOS devices.
“Our solution allows HAMMER to manage diverse Respiratory Training assets without interfering with the product’s fit, form or function,” says Curt Squires, RFID Solution Architect.
AB&R® follows a 3-phase approach to identify the unique needs and challenges of a business’ supply chain. Experts conducted site surveys, then stimulated ‘real-world’ workflows and worst-case scenarios to observe the resilience of the installed system. The HAMMER team was also trained to ensure confident day-to-day maintenance.
“Our goal is to provide an efficient operation that maximizes return on investment and we are confident that HAMMER’s new traceability from this system will do just that,” stated Gary Randall, Vice President of Sales.
About HAMMER
HAMMER is a national and regional training asset that serves other DOE, state, regional, and national needs in such areas as disaster recovery, emergency response, transportation, fire protection, law enforcement, and military readiness.
The HAMMER/Hanford Training organization provides training facilities, curriculum, and training delivery services to the federal, contractor, and sub-contractor employees in support of the Hanford Site and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory missions consistent with the DOE, local, state, and federal workforce training requirements. The organization provides an efficient and performance-based training program and maintains the Volpentest HAMMER Federal Training Center in a “ready-to-serve” capacity as the primary training facility for the Hanford Site.
About AB&R®
Since 1980, AB&R® (American Barcode and RFID) has been a nationally-recognized integrator of proven solutions that drive efficiency and productivity in the supply chain. Those solutions include asset tracking, inventory management, work force mobilization, wireless networking, and the managed services to support them all. For further information about AB&R®, please visit www.abr.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AB&R® celebrates three years being a Top Company to work for
Phoenix, Arizona, June 29, 2017 – AB&R® (American Barcode and RFID Inc.), a nationwide provider of proven supply chain solutions, earned the title of being one of the 2017 azcentral.com Top Companies to Work for in Arizona, for the 3rd year in a row.
AB&R® offers growth opportunities in the company and ensures that their employees feel valued. They celebrate achievements by having team members spotlight others who demonstrate one or more of the five idealized core values of the company for an opportunity to be named to Eagles Club. Eagles Club members receive an all expenses paid trip for two to a travel destination.
“We like to acknowledge the accomplishments of all our employees and take the opportunity to share accolades regularly,” says Mike Stryczek, CEO of AB&R®, “Our ability to attract and retain top talent directly contributes to our consistent growth, profitability and industry-leading products and solutions.”
AB&R® honors their customers as much the employees and takes pride in the relationships they have built. Events occur continuously throughout the year to sustain and strengthen relationships between their staff and customers. As an example, AB&R® held a private networking event at the Phoenix Zoo this past December for customers, employees and their families to enjoy festive lights during the holiday season.
“Our employee turnover rate remains extraordinarily low, which reduces recruitment costs, retains knowledge and builds deeper, longer-term customer relationships” mentioned CEO of AB&R®.
AB&R®’s strongest strategy is their teamwork mentality. Each team member has a purpose and works in close collaboration with other members to perfect a solution, process a sale, share knowledge and more. It is highly encouraged for AB&R® employees to get involved in the community. Teams spent time together bell ringing for The Salvation Army. AB&R® also contributed supplies to the Hydrate Arizona Water Drive, exceeding their goal and donating 3,800 water bottles.
The “Top Companies” will be honored at a celebration and awards breakfast reception on June 29, 2017, at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AB&R® Announces New Partnership with ORBCOMM Inc.
Phoenix, Arizona, ____ , __ 2017 – AB&R® (American Barcode and RFID Inc.), a nationwide provider of proven supply chain solutions, has reached an agreement with ORBCOMM Inc., a leader in technology and innovation.
AB&R® joined forces with ORBCOMM to offer custom tracking and monitoring solutions with the aid of their expertise and experience. ORBCOMM offers multi-network connectivity, leading edge devices and powerful applications that will enhance AB&R®’s current services and solutions. AB&R®’s collaboration with ORBCOMM Inc. will strengthen and amplify their mission to deliver proven solutions that drive efficiency and productivity in the supply chain.
“We’re excited to partner with ORBCOMM and create tremendous benefits for customers by offering valuable solutions and services that seamlessly connect people to data and business processes,” said Dino Farfante, President and Chief Operating Officer of AB&R®. “The possibilities with this partnership are endless as they are equally as passionate about the future of IoT and RFID solutions.”
About AB&R®
Since 1980, AB&R® (American Barcode and RFID) has been a nationally-recognized integrator of proven solutions that drive efficiency and productivity in the supply chain. Those solutions include asset tracking, inventory management, work force mobilization, wireless networking, and the managed services to support them all. For further information about AB&R® please visit www.abr.com
About ORBCOMM Inc.
ORBCOMM Inc. (Nasdaq:ORBC) is a leading global provider of Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) communication solutions and the only commercial satellite network dedicated to M2M. ORBCOMM’s unique combination of global satellite, cellular and dual-mode network connectivity, hardware, web reporting applications and software is the M2M industry’s most complete service offering. Our solutions are designed to remotely track, monitor, and control fixed and mobile assets in core vertical markets including transportation & distribution, heavy equipment, industrial fixed assets, oil & gas, maritime, mining and government.
With close to two decades of innovation and expertise in M2M, ORBCOMM has more than 1.7 million subscribers with a diverse customer base including premier OEMs such as Caterpillar Inc., Doosan Infracore America, Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., John Deere, Komatsu Ltd., and Volvo Construction Equipment, as well as end-to-end solutions customers such as C&S Wholesale, Canadian National Railways, CR England, Hub Group, KLLM Transport Services, Marten Transport, Swift Transportation, Target, Tropicana, Tyson Foods, Walmart, Union Pacific Railroad and Werner Enterprises. For more information, visit www.orbcomm.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 12, 2016
Renowned Author Robert Bauval Leads 3 Day Ancient
SW Explorers Series and Lecture in Sedona May 27-30th
(Sedona, AZ) Robert Bauval is a best-selling author, engineer and world renowned Archeo-astronomer. He's speaking at the Sedona Creative Life Center Friday, May 27th 7-10 pm on: Ancient Pyramid Builders, Modern Cosmology & The Science Of Immortality. Bauval's books have been the subject of many thought provoking articles and documentaries airing on ABC, NBC, Fox-TV, History Channel and Discovery Channel. He will share cutting edge information on the latest in modern quantum mechanics, cosmology and cutting edge neurology. Tickets may be purchased online for $30.
Then Bauval will lead archeo-seekers on an exploration to ancient southwest sites for a once in a life time adventure starting in Sedona, AZ May 28-30, 2016. Guests will visit local ruins, museums, sacred sites, and petro glyphs of ancient people dating back more than 9,500 years.
Attendees will view some of the best rock art in the world, from Sedona, Verde Valley and Winslow, AZ. Individual day trips are offered also. There is early bird registration for the entire weekend limited to 30 people, first come, first served with a $70.00 savings for all 3 days or 1 day trip pricing is available. Lunch is included by Chocolate Tree Eatery of Sedona. There will be photo opportunities with Robert Bauval, networking with like minded people from around the country and plenty of time to rest, rejuvenate and heal at these auspicious sacred sites.
For More information call ___ or visit ___ to register online. This 3 day sacred tour is a Robert Dakota production of Worldviewz Media and sponsored by Sedona Connections, Djedhi training School, Sedona City of the Star People and Chocolate Tree Eatery.
Zebra and Honeywell designed wearable computers with the comfort of the worker in mind to enhance the distribution process through maximized productivity, efficiency and accuracy. Both technology companies have designed a variety of Ring Scanners, Rugged Headsets, Wearable Accessories and supportive Charging Ports for specialized needs in a distribution.
Zebra has created the WT6000 and the WT41NO, while Honeywell designed the 75e and 70e to boost worker productivity. Both companies designed durable devices that fit comfortably on any worker to maximize uptime in any environment. Zebra’s wearable devices have the Android 5.1 operating system while Honeywell pairs with Android or WEH 6.5. Zebra’s devices are 3.2”, which are smaller than the Honeywell extended wearable computers that are 4.3”. Zebra’s devices have a flash memory of 4GB while Honeywell’s 70e is 1GB and the 75e is 16GB. Zebra’s devices have an IP Rating of IP65, as Honeywell’s are IP67. Both companies have similar drop specs and operating temperatures.
Zebra and Honeywell have compatible ring scanners for their mobile handheld devices to allow simultaneous working abilities. Their easy-to-wear devices increase productivity by providing a wide range for barcode scanning along with full traceability. Zebra offers a Bluetooth capability or battery operated option with their RS4000 and RS6000. Honeywell also offers a variety of Ring Scanners that consist of the 8620, 8650 and the 8670. The 8650 and 8670 are Bluetooth compatible while the 8620 is about half of their weight without Bluetooth.
Another compatible device that assists workers with hands-free mobility are the rugged headsets. Zebra and Honeywell created several headsets for the distribution work environment. The various Rugged Headsets created by Zebra and Honeywell have options with Bluetooth, cords and NFC when paired with a compatible device.
In addition to the wearable computers, ring scanners and headsets, Zebra and Honeywell offer various accessories to fulfill the worker’s ideal comfort preferences. Zebra offers a Hip Mount and a Wrist Mount while Honeywell offers an Arm Band and a Belt Sled, along with various other accessories.
Then, Honeywell and Zebra assist in the uphold productivity levels through their various quantities for power supply. Zebra provides battery cradles ranging from a single cradle to a multi-slot cradle depending on the device while Honeywell offers up to an eight-slot battery charger.
Honeywell and Zebra have made products that will prove convenient for workers, increase efficiency and improve accuracy.
The Vehicle Mounted Computer (VMC), formerly known as Vehicle Mounted Terminal, is a multi-purpose mobile device that connects multiple experiences in one. These products are fit for warehouse environments and allow task completion to be quick, accurate and comfortable with the privilege of being away from a desk and chair. We have selected the following devices as top models for the supply chain today, concentrated on productivity and efficiency to ensure that your business is prepared to meet daily challenges.
VMC
Honeywell: VM3
The “Thor” is strong, made to withstand shock, vibrations and rugged environments. It provides the flexibility to replace the front screen panel and remove it from its mount quickly. It requires an external keyboard for typed input but includes an integrated antenna. It has a special feature to operate in low temperature environments. While
this device does not have GPS, it does have Bluetooth and the Dual Core Atom E3826, 1.5GHz processor. This device provides great value for a business’s workflow.
Zebra: VC80
The VC80 is for those that handle materials in vehicles and must withstand rough environments in any location. It is compact with the smallest screen of 12.1” and offers many mounting options for easy installation. To complete tasks fast and accurately, this device is equipped with the newest Win 7 or 10 and includes ports for additional bar code scanners, mobile printers and more! GPS and Bluetooth are an added feature to this product but an external keyboard for typed input.
Advantech DLoG: DLT-V7212
This device is for various environments and the ability to withstand vibrations, shock or abrasions. Advantech DLoG offers a wide variety of models with various features and operating systems like Win 7, 10 and Android. The DLT-V72 comes with function keys, an optional integrated uninterruptible power supply and an optional screen defroster. This product does not come with GPS and Bluetooth but is does include 12-48VDC converter, UPS, DC power cable, cable cover, gasket material & strain reliefs.
Xplore: Xslate R12
Although this device requires an adapter for the mount ability, it is worth it. The R12 rugged tablet compared to the other Xplore tablets is beneficial because the size of the screen is 12.5”, and full HD (1920x1080) with other minor features. Compared to the VM3, VC80 and DLT-V7212, this device has the highest operating temperature of 131°F. This unit does not have any function buttons or keys and will need an external keyboard for keyboard input but they have better processors, consisting of Celeron, i5 and i7 Intel options. This product also comes with Bluetooth and GPS abilities. Win 10 can be can be changed and Xplore offers other models with Android.
Suki Skincare was founded in 2002 by Suki Kramer and offers all natural products and every formula created leaves no carbon footprint. The ingredients are 100% pure with no allergens, sulfates or parabens. The products are safe for anyone to use, even pregnant women because they were designed with synthetic free ingredients.
Suki Skincare is dedicated to finding the perfect product for every individual and on their website they provide a survey that will reveal which product is best for you! Since skin types vary and the conditions are different, Suki Skincare aims to address the underlying issue rather than the symptoms.
Their pure products include moisturizers, cleansers, toners, masques, serums, kits, accessories and eyes and lips creams.
The Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser is a best seller and for good reason! This cleanser fights pores, prevents blackheads, purifies the skin and softens the overall complexity of the skin. A natural sugar granule is paired with their SSS COLLOIDAL OAT™ for a unique formula perfect for the softest and most sensitive skin. The sugar granule is a better alternative to salt because it doesn’t have the sharp edges and the sugar molecule bonds dissolve slowly and smoothly. Using a product with a sugar molecule rather than a salt molecule ensures a soft, efficient and consistent scrub. The cleanser stimulates smooth skin and an even tone thus being beneficial in the short run and long run. The cleanser only needs to be used once a day or 2 to 3 times a week to wreak the benefits of the products.
Not only does Holistic Healing News agree that the Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser is an amazing product but so do many major magazines such as: Allure, Glamour, Women’s Health and InStyle.
The Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser is sold in a glass container, to save plastic, for the price of $10.95 for 1 oz. or $32.95 for 4 oz. from sukiskincare.com
Microbiota Inc. is a family owned business by Dr. Sergey Gazenko, who has a PhD in microbiology along with over thirty years of experience. He has used his education and experience to create many inventions, including the kefir fermenter, which offers numerous health benefits and is sold at an accessible price.
Rather than spend money on dehydrated kefir grains that lose some of the positive qualities over time and is hard to manage, Microbiota Inc. uniquely delivers their high-quality and best-tasting kefir grains alive. Microbiota focuses on maintaining a high quality product with a reliable design so families can make fresh and delicious foods with the kefir fermented devices created by Dr. Gazenko.
Kefir originated in the Caucasus Mountains of Southern Russia and is a natural probiotic that is rich in probiotics, vitamins, and minerals and is nearly lactose free. Kefir grains, which is a beneficial bacteria and looks similar to cauliflower, is used to make Kefir through milk fermentation. The process involves yeast and kefir grains which will feed off the milk and turn it into kefir!
Kefir is powerful and said to be God sent because it is an all-natural healing drink. Kefir contains many group B vitamins, vitamin A, C, D, E, K2, folic acid, biotin, macroelements such as magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. It has microelements such as iron, zinc, iodine, selenium, and manganese. Kefir helps to fight GI disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel disease, ulcers, c.diff and other forms of diarrhea, Crohn’s, constipation, leaky gut, some liver problems, gallbladder problems and colitis. It fights digestive tract infections and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria or fungus such as H.pylori, E. coli, Salmonella, or Candida.
Kefir is also easily digestible, high in protein and low in calories! It boosts immunity, detoxifies the body, lowers blood sugar in diabetics, helps to manage asthma, strengthens bones and has a calming effect on the nervous system. The International Journal of Oncology even wrote that kefir promotes the death of cancer cells. Russians even believe that kefir can ease the pain of hangovers!
Dr. Sergey Gazenko’s homemade kefir and yogurt contain 5-10 times more types of live beneficial cultures than products sold in stores. The kefir grains live for months or years if properly taken care of and can be frozen. The kefir fermenter will save you hundreds of dollars compared to store sold buttermilk or kefir or yogurt. Kefir Fermenters consists of jar, straw, lid and plastic chamber with numerous holes. Kefir grains have free access to milk through holes during fermentation and reliable separated from ready kefir during drinking through straw. Just fill jar with milk and drink after solidifying.
The Milk Kefir Fermenter is offered in varying sizes from 12oz to 50oz and can be bought on Amazon for $12.75-$25.50, or on www.believeprobiotics.com with the option of adding kefir grains.
May 20, 2018
As I reminisce about my semester abroad, I felt the best way to provide insight into my journey was to create “Mosts”. These instances are only highlights from my study abroad experience but represent the vast array of thoughts, feelings and instances that I had while abroad!
Streets were hectic, we walked rushedly (although I was rarely in a hurry), we crossed without signal and drivers seemed ruthless. But something about the hustle and bustle allowed me to get lost in my thoughts which often lead to a smile, thinking “I can’t believe I’m here.” I would live in London in a heartbeat.
My Shakespeare class took us to see plays ‘Julius Caesar’ and ‘All’s Well That Ends Well’ which provided so much more context—with the emotions Shakespeare may have wanted! William Shakespeare’s plays have been a staple in education and visiting the recreated Globe Theatre for performances greatly enhanced my education!
A British boy showed me around the city (hand in hand!), we went through Covent Gardens, pretended to furniture shop at the glamorous mall, Harrods, and then strolled around Hyde Park. I really enjoyed seeing a local’s view of the city instead of taking the Tube or bus everywhere! (I told my friends exactly where I was for safety purposes too).
People were calling the top of Arthur’s Seat a mini hurricane! The entire experience was muddy and hilarious because my friends and I were sliding, one girl fell, I lost my camera, and we looked showered by the end! But we worked hard to reach the top of that grassy hill to see the blurred city below and that is worth celebrating!
PARIS, FRANCE
Most Delicious
Boulangeries (bakeries) were nearly everywhere and I was not mad about it! Everything I ate was délicieux! I fell in love with my first macaroon and baguette, and finally understood why people will walk around with bread poking out of their bags.
Most Funny
CIEE took my program to a comedy show and Gad Elmaleh, a famous French comedian pursuing a career in America, was backstage. My friend and I watched his Netflix show “Gad Elmaleh: American Dream” and laughed so hard about his experiences in America because we connected with them. He mentioned how the dumbest thing an American asked him was “Do you dream in English?”… which is something I have asked people, so long story short—do not test people on their language fluency.
Most Entertaining
I was mesmerized listening to the French crowd at Disneyland Paris sing along to Frozen’s “Let It Go”, and it showed anyone can fall in love with the same movies!
Most Helpless
I used my phone to translate everything during my first grocery haul and again when I went to a Japanese restaurant with only French menus. Ethnocentric me expected English to be everywhere… but by the end of my 6 weeks here I had more confidence speaking and reading the bare minimum of French! Yay! Times of distress provide the most personal growth!
Most Grateful
I visited Hôpital Saint-Louis’s wax museum of dermatological diseases with my Public Health class. A heartbreaking wax mold of a baby born with a disease made me more appreciative and grateful to the idea of having a healthy baby one day and blessed to live with the excelled medical knowledge of today.
Most Invisible
Noting what you do like is just as important as noting what you don’t like in order to discover who you are. People kept to themselves and spoke not at all or in very hushed voices in the metro. The silence and privacy permitted me to easily read on my phone but I disliked feeling so alone, so small and so unimportant.
Most Embarrassing
I lost my balance and landed on a handsome man while standing in the bus. When I sputtered out “désolé!” with my American accent heavily surfacing, a group of girls laughed loudly nearby while he smirked.
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Most Accomplished
My brother visited me for two weeks and we explored, spent time with locals and recognized our privilege as Americans. When he got back home he thanked me for convincing him to fly 25+ hours and said, “You may have altered the course of my life as we know it.”
Most Breathtaking
CIEE took our program on a weekend trip to Sutherlands, a city with the darkest nights, the most clear skies and where the largest telescopes in the world are. I felt engulfed by the starry sky while we laid under the stars and an astronomer explained what we were seeing!
Most Fooled
A very thin, young boy walked behind me and 4 of my friends down the street asking for food for his family. Emotionally tugged, I went with him to buy a large bucket of chicken from KFC. Then he asked for 2 desserts. I got 1. Then he asked for money and I denied him. Later I saw him walking down the street, no food in sight and a cigarette behind his ear. I felt manipulated and fooled but later realized that my intentions were good and the boys actions were out of my control. It’s important to have empathy, but to be mindful of people’s motivations and their perception of Americans/tourists.
Most Sore
There is a cable car that goes up one of the Wonders of Nature, Table Mountain. It costs 151 Rand ($12) up and 277 Rand ($22) down so my brother and I decided not to utilize the man-made device and almost regretted it! 1 hour and 45 minutes later we made it to the famous flat top!
Most Disgusted
Looks deceived me. Racism is present in the world, I know, but I didn’t expect to experience it first-hand. At the beach a white woman told me (I am half black, half white) and a group of my white friends that she preferred this beach because black people never come. Then at a food market, I asked for a brownie and a white older man said “She’s the brownest brownie you’ll ever get! Give her a chance,” about the black employee behind the counter. I hated those people for their way of thinking they were superior, but it was the Apartheid that shaped them and I am not sure if or when those mindsets will be altered. I feel blessed to not experience overt racism where I am from and I greatly admire the strength of the people that do.
Most Appreciative
The friendships that I have formed are something I will always treasure. We all experienced something unique and grew together in a short time. Going abroad provides opportunities to meet people around the world that you may never have crossed paths with otherwise.
Most Changed
It takes something like studying abroad to change your global perspective. I don’t have to stress about things that people in other countries stress about. I now see America differently, I see my hobbies differently, I see my education, my major, my values differently and so much more. I have truly changed from studying abroad.
Most Important Advice for Future Abroad Goers
Understand that different ways of living and acting does not make a person good or bad, or right or wrong—they are just human. If you reshape the lens that you are/were put in, then you will speak to people you normally wouldn’t and do things you may never have.
May 22, 2018
Studying abroad has proved that advertisements are an eyeglass into a society. Marketers develop a message, a goal and a big idea that is tailored to an audience and abide by the laws of the country. If you understand the perspective of an advertisement, you will understand a country and its people.
London is home to some of the busiest and fastest moving people, so this iPhone advertisement demonstrates that the time to read more than one word is unrealistic. This ad = easy to see, easy to read, and easy to recognize.
sketch
Instagram is the place to showcase your best self, in the coolest of places, which is why Insta-bait was invented and London executes it perfectly. Businesses here provide photo opportunities alongside their products/services because they understand people’s desire to share their extremely exciting lives on Instagram! European restaurant, sketch, has a variety of themed rooms and the Insta-baited bathroom has egg-shaped pods filled with music for the toilets and oval shaped mirrors set above the sinks.
Fashion is just one of the attributes that puts France at the forefront. Their forward thinking is present through their health, work, public transit, and immigration systems as well. It seems that they want the world to succeed as well as their people. French people show great loyalty to their small business owners’ specialty stores; boulangeries(bakeries), charcuteries (meat shops) and fromageries (cheese shops)… (Hint, hint, Costcowould probably not succeed here).
Fish Forward (WWF)
The Parisian audience can be found most often riding the metro at some point in the day, and there they would be reminded again of their country’s stance on sustainability. This cartoon seagull with plastic uncomfortably lodged in his throat emphasizes the effect of people’s thoughtless actions and France’s expectations of its people.
Government
France (and the UK) enforce health awareness and although a large amount of people enjoy themselves with a cigarette, they will encounter advertised phrases like “Quit smoking – stay alive for those close to you” to encourage quitting. Despite their government’s push, my French teacher said that they care about having a good time and living their life too much to care about a box’s packaging.
Nelson Mandela, the figurehead of anti-Apartheid, marketed imprisonment as a badge of honor in the past and as a fight for justice and equality in South Africa. Post-Apartheid, South Africa is advertised as the “rainbow nation” and “motherland” which attracts a specific audience and influences the current audience to be hopeful and proud. The history of South Africa has created a dangerously varied audience that marketers need to consider when advertising.
Mzansi Restaurant
The Mzansi Restaurant provides the opportunity for tourists to see where the majority of South Africans live (townships), a side different from typical advertisements, and to experience South African dining.
Residents in South Africa showcase their entrepreneurship with their creative ways of making income. Nomonde, the owner of Mzansi Restaurant, allows locals to help cook or present their artwork to sell. He also allows them to manage parking or play local music for visitors during dinner to make an income.
Nomonde designates time during dinner to share her journey and struggle of growing up in Cape Town and even mentioned how study abroad students dealt a hand in the success of her business by putting the restaurant on TripAdvisor for her! Since the students have advertised online to tourists, Mzansi’s has become the #1 restaurant online despite her not having easily-accessible internet access.
Doctor
This advertisement for “Cheap Removals” is usually directed at sex workers and presents an understanding of the economic history in South Africa.
29,733,210 out of 55,900,000 people live below the poverty line so some women must resort to sex work, but it is currently illegal which makes it often unsafe, and dangerous.
Sorbet
Beauty salon, Sorbet, advertises waterless services because easy access to water is a privilege during the current national disaster. Signs hang in bathrooms, buckets sit in showers, some sinks are turned off, and hand sanitizer is often provided, because corporations must similarly be held responsible for their water usage in services during the drought.
Customers must appease their feelings of guilty (if they have any) for indulging when some Capetonians must walk far distances to retrieve water, can not afford to buy water and their taps may have been turned off.
After actively searching for advertisements everywhere I went to observe their strategies and the culture, I understand that every place has differences. I recognize the importance of knowing who my audience is and how important it is for a company to be global because I looked for familiar brands everywhere I went (before I started to embrace the cultures, of course)! McDonald’sand Oreo were mostly everywhere though, which is impressive!
As for my future in marketing, I see myself living in London and working in advertising. I wish to spread awareness and/or influence people, for their benefit and not just for my benefit.
“There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.” – Nelson Mandela
Mate, What Did I Get Myself Into?
February 12, 2018
I have now been in London, England on the CIEE Open Campus Multi-destination program for a few weeks and have encountered a roller coaster of emotions. From crying on the first night to not being able to imagine leaving, this trip will undoubtedly change me as a person.
NO TIME TO BE KNACKERED
Studying abroad ≠ slacking abroad. This experience is a test of making the most of your days while also allocating time for homework, sleeping, eating and doing laundry. (Weekend travels require even more preparation!
Four days a week I walk through the bustling streets of the big city for about 25 minutes to the CIEE school and every time, the city takes my breath away.
Students are trusted to navigate through the city, and we’re pushed out of our comfort zone. Each class has a few excursions to enhance the course by including the culture’s relativity. London supports the idea of “reading for your degree.” My ‘Shakespeare’ and ‘Mass Media in Europe’ classes are discussion based and debates are encouraged.
PUTTING ON MY BIG BOY TROUSERS
My student dorm-like apartment has 2 twin beds in a long and narrow room, 2 desks, a mini fridge and a stove top (that was incredibly tricky to turn on). There is a little bathroom with 2 buttons to flush the toilet, which I have been flushing incorrectly for 3 weeks (if you’d like to know, the bigger button means half flush and the small button means full flush). My first shopping trip I did not buy anything because I was stubborn and angry that I did not recognize anything (I was close-minded). Even the chocolate carried (which, by now, I have eaten way too much of) was Cadbury, and not my beloved Hershey’s!
Some of the differences that I have quickly noticed are…
Light switches are up to turn off and down to turn on
Football is not football! Football in other countries is where they kick the ball with their foot (so it’s soccer but don’t say that)
24 hour military time is used (Subtract 12)
£1 and £2s are in coin form
People drive on the left side of the road, and they speed up when people are crossing the road
Bags at the grocery store come with a charge
Smoking is common despite the scary packaging
Tap water is not always free
Garbage cans are few and far between
The “1st floor” is really the 2nd floor, which is above the ground floor
And lastly… Americans can be loud
COLD WEATHER, COLDER PEOPLE?
People are expected to be cold and rushed but I was shocked at the kindness shown to me. When people have the time to talk, they are quite pleasant! Topics usually drift to politics and the occasional mock of the accent (who knew I had one?!) The quiet mornings and busy streets give me time to get lost in my thoughts, appreciate this opportunity and gawk at the scenery as I walk through the city. The art-itecture is amazing!
January 17, 2018
Everything changed when I realized how unfamiliar and naive I was to other parts of the world. My entire future was strategically mapped out (become a marketer/bodybuilder in the US)… that is, up until my sorority sister came back from the ASU: Sun Devils in Dublin: Internship and Study Abroad Program. She told me stories of her internship, the wonderful people she met, the sheep she saw, and the castles she visited only to make me more curious and yearning to see the world.
I had no idea how I was going to do it as a first generation, minority student. I did not have a large savings account and I come from a single parent family.
In order to see more of the world while working towards a degree I had to take charge, make changes and hope for a miracle… The only thing I had going for me was my determination. I’ve always been one to become obsessed with an idea and pursue it wholeheartedly (extremely promotion-focused).
So here’s how I made studying abroad happen with 4 weeks left before applications were due and 3 months prior to the start of the program.
I went to a study abroad information session at ASU.
I narrowed down programs of places I would want to go to and compared costs on the ASU Study Abroad search engine.
I attended the ASU Study Abroad Expo: A peer advisor introduced me to a CIEE representative (coincidence or fate) and I asked a million questions about the countries she had been to, what the CIEE classes are like, and if I should be worried about terrorism! The CIEE rep asked, “Why don’t you study abroad next semester?”
I walked into the international study abroad advisor’s walk-in hours and she informed me of the scholarships offered by CIEE, ASU and outside sources like the Gilman.
After gaining the confidence to pursue my goal, I began the CIEE and ASU application immediately and applied for a passport.
I searched ASU scholarships
Frugal became my middle name, and I cut unnecessary costs (eyelash extensions, trainer, sorority, etc.).
I applied for a 2nd job as a server (Tip: expect to spend time studying the menu).
I started the scholarship applications and I visited many tutoring centers for a variety of views (Business, Barrett, Noble).
I reached out to people for advice and to read my essays such as: my success coach from freshman year, my mom, and the ASU program manager from the National Scholarship Advisement.
Prepare to spend a few weeks on these. I worked up to the deadline for most scholarships and made edits probably every other day to ensure that I answered every question and included my voice and personality.
I decided to spend 18 weeks in 3 different locations to earn 18 credits and fulfill some international business certificate requirements on the CIEE Multi-Destination Open Campus program. It allows students to experience so much in a short time, be in shared apartments at each location (experiencing the dorm life that I never never got to) and experience class field trips together!
Plans change and life may take you in an unexpected direction to pursue something greater and you just have to go with it!
My journey is about to begin and I expect to become more independent, understanding, confident and considerate. In addition to making friends and connections, I will have stories to tell and will be a stronger asset to a company as a global citizen. Memories that I will never forget are about to form and here I reflect on the process of how I did it and what made me do it.
The Life Changing Gift
By Kiara Caldwell, a senior at Arizona State University
Most people would be offended if they received the gift that I did on Christmas.
I unwrapped a blue bikini with silver stars across it, which I didn’t understand why (since it's winter) until I realized it had a deeper meaning- a life-changing meaning. My mom smiled as she explained that they represented 16 weeks of pre-paid personal training to prepare me to compete in my first NPC Teen Bikini bodybuilding competition.
I cried uncontrollably while my brother stared at me confused. This gift made my goals of a higher level of fitness a reality. My mother was not calling me fat or pushing me towards weight loss. She was giving me hope and something to look forward to because she knew about my struggle with body image.
To gain enough confidence to walk across a stage in a fitness bikini might sound superficial, but to me it meant everything. To get judged on the definition of my muscles, stage presence and posing, was a clear reflection of my determination and commitment to a higher level of fitness.
Little did I know, my fitness journey would transform my life not only physically, but mentally, too.
Growing Up
Body image has been a lifelong problem for me. I would avoid swimming pools and showing my body in general. It started back in elementary school when I would tie a jacket around my waist to hide the size of my butt and I still remember the boy who called me “llama legs,” because my hips and thighs were “big.”
On my 16th birthday, I was old enough to get a gym membership, which was a big a day for me! When I first joined the gym, I did not know anything! I had to ask the front desk how to unclip the equipment. The squat rack scared me and so did having bad form and looking weak. People at the gym always tried to share their “expert” advice, too. For example, “you’re doing cardio for too long,” “use weights while lunging,” and “when are you going to work on your legs?”
It almost seemed impossible to make progress and trust that my workout routine was going to be effective.
The Rollercoaster of a Fitness Journey
Despite being 18 years old and just starting my college career, I was dedicated to taking my fitness goals to a higher level with the help of a personal trainer. Their expertise was exactly what I needed to transform my body and mind! Bodybuilding quickly became my hobby, an escape from my everyday studies, and a way to participate in a healthy activity.
My trainer provided a meal and workout plan that included one rest day, which quickly turned into no rest days, as the competition date approached. I took comparison pictures every other week and based on my results, my trainer would make adjustments to my workouts and/or meals.
The physical changes I saw in my body made me so happy! Every morning I woke up excited and began realizing that it was not a dream. I had something to look forward to when I saw my body continuously changing. I quickly understood that with hard work; comes reward.
The gift from my mother was a success. I placed top 5 in my competition and loved my new confidence but what came after would grow and challenge me the most.
Post Show
Unfortunately, I had no plans once my training ended, except, eat all the foods I was craving! As a result, I quickly learned what it felt like to lose all my hard work. I was eating all of the foods that I wasn’t supposed to when I was dieting. I didn’t realize how my mental state changed with such intense competition and how my body would physically react to what was now considered: foreign foods.
I felt freedom but very lost without the accountability and comfort of my trainer.
Three months later, I had gained back more weight than I lost (with the new gained muscle mass- yay!) and I reverted back to my sad, unconfident self. The mirror became the enemy once again and I was doing body checks, nervously touching my thighs and hyper aware of my stomach expanding after eating. At that point, I knew that I needed my trainer to help get me back on track.
Why I Love My Personal Trainer
My personal trainer gave me a platform to love my own body and the confidence to sculpt it how I wanted.
I was impacted mentally...
There were so many times that I wanted to quit but my trainer motivated me to keep going
I learned to push past (what I thought were) my limits
I gained the confidence to enter the gym knowing that I had a plan and I could execute it
I could stand proud and not worry about people judging my body
I gained patience after constantly hearing my trainer say: “trust the process.” Trainers have a way of seeing future accomplishments before they happen because they understand the formula for a high level of fitness
I learned to eat for health benefits versus pleasure/reward
I was impacted physically...
I learned proper technique and form
I lost weight
I gained lean muscle mass
My clothes fit better
I could walk up a flight of stairs without getting winded
These reasons are why I believe in personal training. I was able to put my trust in someone else and feel confident the results would follow.
Today
I am grateful for my Christmas gift because it has made me who I am today. Otherwise, I would not have learned how to make my workouts more efficient and effective. I would not have fully understood the importance of diet in fitness goals, either.
With my past success and failures behind me; I am continuing to work out at the gym regularly and am constantly striving for greatness.
I learned how to jump onto a 20 inch box, starting at 12. This is something that seemed impossible at the beginning but with practice, I built my confidence (once again). I also learned how to accomplish a strict pull up. In fitness, there is always something to improve upon, which makes it a lifelong ride.
A higher level of fitness means continuously working to grow stronger and better. This is what I desired and I believe I achieved.
