Facilities and Auxiliaries Hosts International Intern
Contact: Laurie Thomas, (740) 593-2932
ATHENS, Ohio (May 8, 2001) -- Twenty-year-old Klaudia Petronia traveled halfway around the world to become the first international intern for Ohio University's Division of Facilities and Auxiliaries.
Originally from Aruba, Petronia is studying facilities management at the Hogeschool Diedenoort in The Netherlands. Part of her training requires two practical training placements. After completing one practical in Europe, Petronia decided to take advantage of an option to study abroad in the United States. She arrived at Ohio University on March 12.
"It will help my English and help me learn the differences between facilities management in Holland and the U.S.," Petronia said. She wants to interact with students while gaining work experience.
The Division of Facilities and Auxiliaries is responsible for every aspect of maintaining the university, from heating and plumbing to food services and planting flowers.
"I like to start presentations by telling people that wherever you are on campus, Facilities and Auxiliaries is there," said Mick Harris, director of maintenance and operations.
Petronia will work with the division in three capacities. Her first assignment involves collaborating with Harris on the computerized maintenance management system, which processes work orders and information from all campus buildings. She then will assist Jean Radcliff, director of work management, with a training program in which students receive credit at Hocking College. Her final task will be helping Bev Wyatt, director of conference services and marketing, in the housing office. She also will observe the daily routine of each of the shops at the Facilities and Auxiliaries plant as well as various maintenance projects.
"Klaudia has been a delight," Radcliff said of Petronia's service so far. "She is always willing to help and is interested in everything."
After completing her internship in July, Petronia said she would like to travel more and work in larger cities around the world before eventually returning to Aruba.
