Q&A with past participant, Paul Stoner
We recently got in
touch with one of our past participants, Paul Stoner. He started the Workaway
International programme in 2008/2009 and worked in the golf department at Boca
West. Since working on the programme,
Paul has been appointed as the General Manager at Clovelly Country Club in Cape
Town! Paul is proof that hard work pays off. Here is what he had to say:
1. What was your
motivation for joining the programme?
I finished my
schooling and was unsure of what I wanted to study. My best friend’s aunt and
uncle had gone on the Workaway International programme in 2004 and recommended
that we give it a try. We had a look at the website and our minds were made up.
Next thing we knew, we were on a flight to the USA.
2. Can you
elaborate on your career journey - (i.e. what was your first position and how
has your career grown from there)?
I started my
Workaway International journey in 2008/2009 at Boca West Country Club. I was a
marshal across 4 golf courses, however from time to time we job swopped and I
assisted with starting the fields of players, parking golf carts and even
worked on the driving range.
After returning to
South Africa, I was still unsure about what I wanted to do with my career. I wanted
to study, so I went on to earning my BComm and Honours through UNISA while
tutoring for additional income.
Once the tutoring ended,
I sent my CV to a few prestigious country clubs in Cape Town, including Clovelly
Country Club, Steenberg Golf Club, and Westlake Golf Club to see if I could get
back into the industry.
Steenberg was the
first to respond, and I began working in the Pro Shop in 2011, before
progressing to Assistant Golf Director in 2014. I held this position for 2
years before moving to the Clovelly Country Club, and the rest is history. I am
now completing my Certified Club Managers certification through CMAA.
3. What was your
favourite part about being in the USA?
I loved being in
Florida. There were so many great opportunities nearby. We had day trips to
Miami, visited amazing theme parks, took trips to Key West and even trips to
the Bahamas. There was always a new experience waiting around the corner.
4. What was the
most challenging part of your job?
Being able to
address older clients in a firm, yet professional manner was challenging.
Managing members, guests and staff's expectations was also tricky. It was my
job to ensure that everyone who interacted with the club had their needs
satisfied and that their experience was memorable.
5. What is the most
common misconception about working abroad?
A common
misconception is that you will feel lonely as you do not have an established
network, family or support system in the USA.
This couldn’t be further from the truth! From the moment you interact
with the Workaway International team, they provide support from the interview
through to departing and are there for you throughout the season. Meeting
fellow South Africans on the programme also helped.
6. What impact
has the Workaway International programme had on your career?
The experience I
gained on the Workaway International programme has had a massive impact on my
career. It directed me to my current career path. Without this kick start and
experience at such a prestigious country club, I may not have pursued this
industry.
7. If you could
redo anything about your time in the USA, what would it be?
I would have stayed
longer and applied for the summer season up north.
8. What advice do
you have for future applicants?
Whether you are finishing school or at a
crossroads in your career, the Workaway International programme provides
applicants with an awesome opportunity to grow and learn. You get to
network with people from all over the world and experience working in a
world-renowned establishment. You should not be afraid to take a risk and step
out of your comfort zone!
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