What is the chief memory Bulahdelah Central School students have of their visit to Google's offices in Pyrmont, Sydney?
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There are less than 50 steps to free food if you are an employee!
Thirty-six Bulahdelah Central School students attended an overnight excursion to the Western Sydney HSC and Careers Expo, which included a visit to the Google offices and the University of Sydney campus.
Careers teacher Linda Drenkhahn said students were selected based on their previously noted career aspirations and/or ATAR eligibility, and this was made possible through a K-12 Rural and Remote Career Education grant from NSW DEC.
All students attended at least one seminar of interest at the expo.
They made the most of the opportunity to speak to a variety of exhibitors about courses, employment opportunities and gap year options.
The campus tour of University of Sydney was a brief introduction to a huge university campus.
Students were especially impressed with the history of the university and the sandstone buildings.
They also enjoyed a short presentation which covered course options, pathways to university, scholarships, accommodation and international exchange.
The evening provided the opportunity to enjoy a variety of international foods at the food court at Broadway. Students also had the chance to do a spot of late night shopping, before they all enjoyed a late movie at the new Palace cinema complex, also on Broadway.
The following day, students made their way through Darling Harbour to the Google offices in Pyrmont.
They enjoyed a comprehensive presentation about careers in engineering (as Google was actually an engineering company), jobs that existed now that didn't just a few years ago and where jobs with Google were heading in the future.
The tour was a highlight, especially the provision of free food for employees. Staff can enjoy anything from a coffee and bowl of cereal to a fully cooked chef-prepared meal, 24/7.
There are sleep pods for a rest if employees need a nap. They also have access to a gym, movie theatre, places to park their scooters or skateboards and bathroom facilities that cater for absolutely everyone (including the toilets).
Office spaces are designed by staff and include a variety of themes, including the 'upside down' office, and meeting rooms made out of old monorail carriages.
Ms Drenkhahn said the students conducted themselves with Bulahdelah pride and benefited greatly from the opportunity and experience.
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