by M. C. Jennings | Oct 17, 2012 | Current Students
Dr. Darryl Jinkerson
ACU’s College of Business lost a professor, mentor, colleague and friend on Friday, October 12, 2012 when Dr. Darryl Jinkerson, associate professor of management, died suddenly at the age of 54.
A Harding graduate, Darryl joined the ACU faculty in 2002 after being pursued by COBA. Dr. Monty Lynn wrote, “I admired Darryl from a distance during our undergraduate years at Harding University and particularly I was impressed by his effortless mastering of quantitative skills and research methods. I followed Darryl’s stellar career path from a distance – through graduate school at Southern Illinois to Arthur Andersen and through a tour of managing private businesses. Around 2000, we encouraged Darryl to apply for an ACU faculty opening in management, but we were unsuccessful in attracting him and understandably so: Darryl had deep roots in Chicago. He was a director at a highly reputable international accounting firm, had recently served as Vice President of a family business, was actively engaged in a vibrant church, was a generous servant in an Illinois summer youth camp, traveled extensively around the globe for work, was an active and devoted father and husband, and somehow found time to teach courses part-time at two Chicago-area Christian colleges. It was this last point – despite his busy schedule, he chose to share with others in Christian higher education – that convinced us we might have a chance. We approached him a couple of years later when his employer, Arthur Andersen, was crumbling due to indiscretions of a few employees in the Houston office. It was still a long-shot to attract Darryl. He had hundreds of contacts and opportunities thanks to his effective efforts with global clients. But Darryl accepted our offer. Needless to say, we were overjoyed. Darryl brought to ACU evaluation experience and knowledge of the world’s leading accounting firm and for a decade, shared that expertise with ACU students and colleagues. He continued to love his family, was a great friend to colleagues, and was an elder in his church. He consulted widely with Fortune 500 clients in Chicago and New York, and with local firms in Abilene. What a blessing this friend and gifted colleague was to many. We are forever changed by his dynamic leadership and service in the College of Business Administration at ACU.”
Dr. Darryl and Cindy Jinkerson
During his first year of teaching, Darryl was honored as the Teacher of the Year in the Department of Management Sciences, later serving four years as department chair. He enjoyed the classroom and the daily interaction with students, helping them make real life connections to the business world. Current and former students left words of condolence on COBA’s Facebook page, giving this testimony, “Dr. Jinkerson was not only a teacher, but was also a friend. He cared about his students and got to know each and every one of them.” Another wrote, “Heartbreaking. I will never forget the first day of class, him saying ‘If my phone rings it means it is my family, I will take the call, they are that important to me.’ What a great example of a kind heart.”
Dr. Jinkerson and Dr. Ian Shepherd preparing dinner for students
Not only was Darryl a teacher and mentor to his students, but to his colleagues as well. Dr. Andy Little wrote, “From the vantage point of a young faculty member, Darryl was exceptionally generous with his time. There were countless occasions when I would walk next door into his office, plop down in his chair, and ask his advice on some practical question. How should I take attendance effectively? What makes a good test question? What do I do if 75% of the class fails the test? He was always glad to help. He never seemed too busy for my silly questions; he never asked me to come back later or ask someone else; he always wanted to empower me to be a better professor. He was kind and thoughtful, helpful and genuine. We miss him.”
Dr. Jinkerson and Dr. Phil Vardiman
If you saw Darryl somewhere, you most likely saw Dr. Phil Vardiman as well. This dynamic duo worked together to accomplish much, whether it was mentoring students through SIFE, reaching out through study abroad, or perfecting their game on the golf course. The friendship that Phil and Darryl shared was special. Phil said, “I can’t begin to tell you all the things we did together and how much he meant to me. He made me a better person just to know him. When I think of Darryl, he was more than a friend. He was my brother and I will never forget him. He loved his family and he loved working at COBA. He was a great teacher and mentor to so many students. We will never be able to replace the effort and dedication he gave to everything he did.”
Darryl had a passion for engaging students globally through study abroad programs. He was named the Director of Global Initiatives this past summer and was actively engaged in the process of refining existing programs and creating new opportunities. Darryl had taken many groups of students for study abroad trips to Honduras, China, Oxford, and most recently to Australia. He and Dr. Ian Shepherd were planning a trip to Australia during this Christmas break to work with Aboriginal tribes in addition to touring international businesses. Darryl had a passion for helping those in need. He had gone to Honduras several times with Mission Lazarus, SIFE, and Torch Missions. In 2007, he and his daughters traveled to Honduras together, building a house there in memory of his father, who died in 2007.
The Jinkerson Family
Darryl would have been the first person to tell you that all of his professional and philanthropic contributions paled in comparison to his family. When asked about what stood out to her, Karen Viertel said, “He was a great dad to his girls. He loved them so much and talked A LOT about little London, his precious granddaughter. He was proud of the women they have become and the great men they married. Good job, Darryl, showing them what a girl needs to look for in a husband, father, and spiritual leader.” Dr. Orneita Burton shared the same sentiment. She said, “My first words to describe Darryl when I met him were, ‘This is certainly what God intended when He gave girls fathers!’ We have lost a fine example of the embodiment of fatherhood as a reflection of our loving Father in Heaven.”
Countless friends, students, and colleagues have observed many, many times over the years – especially during the last year – his devotion to his family. Whenever Darryl spoke about his wife, Cindy, or his girls, Whitney, Rachel, and Amanda, he would always talk about them with a smile on his lips, a heart full of pride, and love that was both fierce and tender. The role he relished the most was that of husband and father and we were all able to witness his love and devotion firsthand. It has made us better parents and spouses. Thank you, Darryl, for your example.
Dr. Jinkerson and his daughters, Whitney, Rachel and Amanda
At times like this, it is easy to question why Darryl left us so soon. Frankly, there isn’t an answer for that. However, Darryl would be encouraging us to keep at the work of educating and mentoring students, encouraging our colleagues, and making our families our first priority, so we will follow your example and work each day at making the world a better place for someone else. Darryl, we will miss you. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8.
Visitation is Wednesday, Oct. 17, from 6-8 p.m. at Piersall-Benton Funeral Directors (733 Butternut, Abilene, Texas 79602), with a memorial service at 2 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 18, at Abilene’s University Church of Christ. The service will be streamed live at http://uccabilene.org/ucc-live/.
by M. C. Jennings | Aug 27, 2012 | Current Students
The College of Business and the Griggs Center are excited to introduce Wildcat, Inc. This new program is giving COBA students the opportunity to 
launch and manage an on-campus business as part of their studies. The Wildcat, Inc. program provides a great opportunity for students from all of COBA’s majors to work together in an entrepreneurial context. In the next few weeks the Connections Cafe in the Mabee Business Building will transition to a 100% student-run operation. A team of student leaders has been selected and are already hard at work on the transformation. We are grateful to ACU’s Business Services department and to Aramark for their partnership in making this opportunity a reality. We invite current students to watch for our grand opening in just a few weeks and for future Wildcat, Inc. projects currently in development.
by M. C. Jennings | Aug 15, 2012 | Current Students
This weekend, ACU will be welcoming the class of 2016 to our campus. It’s a transformative period for parents and students. We’d like to offer new students a few tips on how to successfully navigate the freshman year.
1. Start with a clean slate. College is a brand new start academically and personally. You have a shiny new GPA and an opportunity to make new friends. It’s a fresh start – make the most of it!
2. Get to know the ACU campus. Meet your academic advisors, professors, and campus staff. Find out where services on campus for things such as counseling, medical attention, tutoring, the library, post office, etc. are located and take advantage of those services when needed. You’ll be surprised at how much assistance is available to you if you just ask.
3. Get to know Abilene. Abilene offers diverse cultural activities and events and is home to some of the friendliest people you will meet. Go downtown to places like the Paramount, the Grace, or drive out to Buffalo Gap for some great steak. Find a church home and get connected with the college ministry or members in that church. Churches LOVE college students and you will find that many members enjoy having college students as part of their small groups, over for dinner, or involved in various church or community ministries. Most of all, belonging to a church body gives you a home away from home and a group of people who will love and care for you while you are in Abilene.
4. Get involved on campus. Many new students feel a combination of homesickness and of not quite belonging to this new community yet. Make the most of the opportunities you have to meet new friends through activities such as Freshman Follies, Intramurals, and student organizations and clubs. You’ll make new friends, learn new skills, and feel more connected to the ACU community.
5. Call, email, or text your parents. At some point in the first year, you may be homesick. That feeling may come out of the blue and hit you like a ton of bricks. No matter how busy you get with school, activities, or new friends, make time to talk to your parents and siblings. They miss you just as much as you miss them and want to know how you are adjusting to your new life.
6. Get organized and budget your time. Use whatever method works best for you to keep you organized, whether you use a large wall calendar, a day planner, your iPhone, iPad, laptop, etc. Write down assignment due dates and give yourself deadlines. Block off time to study and resist the urge to go out with your friends during that time. Learn to prioritize. Procrastination and cramming for a test or assignment are not a winning habit.
7. Manage your money. Create a budget and find ways to stretch your money. Don’t take advantage of the “free” gifts and offers that credit card companies send to you. Do everything in your power to stay away from debt for living or social expenses.
8. Eat healthy and work out. Your parents were right – you need to eat right and get your sleep! Go to bed at a decent hour, take your vitamins, eat a healthy diet, work out to fight stress, and feed your brain. Your grades will be glad you did.
9. Be prepared to feel overwhelmed. Freshman year may bring some change and you may have some moments when you feel overwhelmed and stressed. Be ready to feel unprepared for some of the rigors of college life but recognize that you’re not the only student who feels that way. This is a normal part of the growing process and the feeling won’t last forever. Before you know it, you’ll blink and be a sophomore.
by M. C. Jennings | Aug 7, 2012 | Uncategorized
ACU Entrepreneur Bootcamp 
The ACU Entrepreneur Bootcamp is a full-day training program designed for aspiring entrepreneurs in the Abilene area. The training session assists two types of individuals: those who are interested in entrepreneurship but do not have a specific concept in mind, and those who have a business concept and need help launching the venture.
The bootcamp concentrates on the key tools, perspectives and approaches used to successfully create and launch a business. Presenters include ACU faculty members and successful area entrepreneurs. The presenters will share advice and expertise, focusing on applying concepts and ideas to the attendees’ business ventures.
ACU Entrepreneur Bootcamp takes place Aug. 10 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. in ACU’s Hunter Welcome Center. Space is limited and prior registration is required. Early registration is available for $99 per person through Aug. 1.
Register for the ACU Entrepreneur Bootcamp
by M. C. Jennings | Jul 31, 2012 | Uncategorized
Wednesday 6/27/2012 – Our last full day in Australia by Ian Shepherd
At 6:55 am we set off for our Half Day Straddie Tour. We got to Paddle across the tranquil waters of the Gold Coast, keeping an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and stingrays. We got to visit two of Queensland’s secluded islands where we were served a delicious continental breakfast on the beach. We go to snorkel with hundreds of sub-tropical fish off Wavebreak Island (1hr approx.) then, we took a short paddle to South Stradbroke Island and got to enjoy a stroll across one of the best surfing beaches in the world. Some of us even got to see Spot, the Swamp Faced Wallaby, only found on South Stradbroke Island.
Later on in the evening, Dr. J and Dr. S cooked tacos for all as we celebrated our last night together. It was really cool to see the relaxed friendships and camaraderie that has formed with the group. Students became friends. Faculty became mentors. What a great experience for all.
We leave at 6:25 am in the morning for the USA. Pray for our safety as we travel. We have three students diverting and staying in Manly for a few days (they will be surfing some more). I will be staying with Ethan and Leah at my mother’s for 3 more weeks as we work on mum’s house and do some repairs.
What a great experience. It is with mixed emotions that we say goodbye to new and close friends. Travel well!
Final Goodbyes…! By Ian Shepherd
The day started at 5:00 am for most of us as we had to finish packing and check out of our rooms by 6:30 am. We told the students that they needed to be downstairs by 6:25 and everyone made it on time. After a group photo we grabbed our breakfast in a box and headed out to the bus for our 30 minute ride to the Gold Coast Airport. We really enjoyed our stay at the Mantra Sun City. They were centrally located and well within walking distance of the shopping center and fun activities for all. I would stay there again with our group.
On arrival at the airport we were unable to check our bags all the way through to final destinations. This was odd. On arrival in Sydney (after a smooth and uneventful flight) we all met for one final time at the baggage claim to grab bags and make our way to our own private destinations. As we hugged and shook hands it struck me how close we had become as we shared this wonderful experience.
Some of the students told me how life changing this trip had been for them. That made me feel good. My greatest fear as tour leader was that the activities and classes were not challenging and did not meet the expectations of the students.
We have learned so much on this trip. Darryl and I plan on another trip to Australia in 18 months (if approved) during the Christmas break of 2014. This would be another 3 week class that leaves the day after Christmas and returns for school in January. The trip will come into Australia through Brisbane and then divert into two groups. One group will continue on to do operations research in Sydney and another group will go to the outback and teach technology skills to Aboriginal children on reservations. We will then meet up again in Sydney for a few days before going on to Auckland NZ to finish out the trip. The outback trip will be very “rustic” and may not be suitable for all students (extreme heat and camping type accommodations).
As this is our last post, I hope and pray that this trip has in some way changed our students to be more global in their perspectives. I pray that in some way they will always have a special place in their hearts for the people from down under. Ouray mates! You were a bonza group of true blue Christian representatives for ACU. There will always be a place around my camp fire for any one of you!
Love and best wishes ….Ian Shepherd….!
by M. C. Jennings | Jul 26, 2012 | Uncategorized
Monday 6/25/2012 Our last day of official class activities in Australia by Ian Shepherd
Monday was test day in Surfers Paradise. Most students started with breakfast in the hotel and then took online tests as required. Some students 
did a final walk around Surfers and a few took a deep sea fishing trip.
Dr. Darryl Jinkerson and I met with Bradley Johnson and explored the possibility of our next trip involving activities 
working with technology education for aboriginals. Brad is focusing on spreading the word through the indigenous population of Australia by ministering to them both spiritually and physically. We are excited about the possibility of adding a one week activity to our next Australia trip.
Tomorrow we are four wheeling through the rainforest. Then Wednesday we are kayaking and snorkeling.
The clock is running down and I sense that the students are a little sad at this experience ending. After talking with Dr. J. we think it would be great for each of our students to pick four of five pictures from their personal collection of photos (when we get home) and email them to me (ixs03a@acu.edu) along with a personal note about why each picture is important to them. I would like to create an album that we can put together and send to everyone that sums up our experience.
Remember to pray for Rachel as her surgery is tomorrow evening our time.
Tuesday 6/26/2012 we met our Southern cross 4wd Driver/guide for a full day Window to the Wilderness Tour of Tamborine & Lamington National Parks by Ian Shepherd
Our “Window to the Wilderness” tour began on Queensland’s Gold Coast. We found that a short distance beyond the beaches another paradise awaits, Nature’s Paradise, the World Heritage Listed Rainforests of Lamington National Park. The trek into the Hinterland region followed the 
original pioneer’s track to the volcanic plateau of Tamborine Mountain. This area of secluded eucalyptus forests provides a private sanctuary for koala, wallabies and other varied wildlife.
Mid-morning we took a break for morning tea and chance to check out the Gallery Walk on the Mountain. Delicious fresh scones, served with rhubarb jam, cream, tea and coffee were served. We took time to stretch our legs when guides, 
who are renowned for their local knowledge and expertise, escorted us on a leisurely bush walk. Their use of plastic snakes now gets significant respect from some of the girls in our group.
We discovered lush subtropical rainforests with cascading waterfalls, learned about the forests unique characteristics, and how the Aboriginal people gathered food from the forest floor and the animals and birds that call the area home.
Lunch time was great. Tucked away in the beautiful Sarabah Valley was our private lunch venue “Spring Gully”. With all the appeal of ‘The outback” yet only a stone’s throw from the Gold Coast, This 400 acre property provided the ideal venue for a delicious BBQ lunch with all the trimmings. Mouth-watering beefsteaks, chicken, fish or vegetarian accompanied by crisp salads and fresh fruit. Lessons in boomerang throwing and whip cracking had the students enthralled.
Following lunch, the tour continued on into the mountainous regions of Lamington National Park (Australia’s largest preserved natural stand of 
subtropical rainforest). At O’Reilly’s Plateau, some 3,000 feet above sea level, colorful native birds flocked around us and were fed. The students really enjoyed this up close and personal interaction with the birds.
The Treetop Boardwalk through the rainforest canopy offered a bird’s eye view of this enchanting area, especially for those who climb the observation tower. Several of our students were caught unaware by the guides who were hiding in trees to scare those “Yank tourists”! Very funny!
Leaving O’Reilly’s we took in the magnificent view of mountains and valleys with a 300 degree view from the Gold Coast to Brisbane and around to the great Dividing Range. On the return journey to the Gold Coast, we had sightings of kangaroos and the pretty faced wallabies as they emerge from their bush retreats to feed on the lush grass in the cooler part of the day.
Tonight at 10 pm we are holding a prayer vigil for Rachel Goodman (Darryl Jinkerson‘s daughter) who is having a major surgery for cancer starting at that time. Please pray for her if you have time as well.
by M. C. Jennings | Jul 23, 2012 | Current Students
Five weeks, two countries, six cities, and one mission: to spread God’s love across Korea and China by meeting the needs of the people met along the way.
Dr. Kilnam Cha, professor in the College of Biblical Studies led his mission team, which was comprised of two COBA students— Kyndal Coleman, junior accounting major from San Antonio and Tóng Yíng An, senior accounting major from Taiyuan, China— along with Cannon Spears, sophomore missions major from Blue Ridge, TX.
Below is a blog entry from Kyndal Coleman, one of the students on the trip, as she explains how God moved throughout her team’s journey across Asia.
The journey began in Seoul, South Korea where we worked with local schools to bring support to English students of all ages. While 
visiting many different learning environments, we quickly discovered how powerful the English language truly is- it’s being taught regularly alongside Korean and Chinese classes to students as young as 3 years old. All across Asia, the English language is seen as the gateway to better job opportunities, more personal connections, and ultimately the possibility of making a name of oneself. Our job was simple: use the skills God has blessed us with as native English speakers to help each person move closer to their chance at a better life once they’ve mastered the language. Even more, we had the chance to share God’s love through encouragement; reminding each of our students how precious they are in God’s sight even without perfect English because God’s love transcends all language boundaries!
As we moved on to China, we were blessed to have Tóng Yíng available as our guide and translator, as we found the environment to be much different than that of Korea. Throughout all four cities we visited while in China, I sensed this deep longing for excellence in the people we encountered. This desire made it very easy to find students who were open and willing to work extremely hard with us to study the English language. I found that I was actually the one being encouraged by the Chinese student’s inquisitive and hard-working spirits, an unexpected shift from what I was prepared for. Isn’t it funny how God sometimes uses unexpected people and situations to teach us such valuable lessons?
Before we left for our trip, I had a hard time believing that I was prepared to travel across the world to teach a foreign language. But the truth is, I was more than prepared, for the skills I needed to spread God’s love across Asia were not complicated at all. In fact, these “skills” were things I would sometimes take for granted in the past- things like growing up in a home that speaks English fluently, my daily Bible classes at ACU, perseverance brought forth by the COBA professors who have pushed me to excel, and even just the ability to sit down and have a conversation with someone. Teaching English in Korea in China wasn’t about being the most “skilled” English teacher around; it was about using the skills and experiences God had already blessed me with to make a difference in the lives of others. God had equipped me and the rest of my team LONG before He called us to this mission field, and we were overly prepared for the work He had for us to do.
As our five-week journey came to a close, we had the chance to spend one of our final days in Beijing with the COBA Study Abroad group who had arrived in the area just days before. Again, I was unexpectedly encouraged by the sight of familiar faces all the way across the world! After working so hard for the duration of our trip, it was nice to wrap up our voyage with fellowship and an exciting adventure. We traveled together to a unique part of the Great Wall of China: an area complete with a gondola ride to the top and a 
toboggan slide down the mountain. Our group spent over two hours marveling at the breathtaking sights of the ancient structure. Set high in the mountainous landscapes of China, the Great wall spans further than our eyes could ever see. We were in awe of the beauty that surrounded us, and for me it was the perfect ending to a life-changing trip.
Thank you to the COBA Study Abroad group for making our last day in China so enjoyable. I will never forget those glimpses of the Great Wall, and can’t wait to proudly hang the gorgeous photos all around my apartment for all to see!
by M. C. Jennings | Jul 19, 2012 | Uncategorized
Saturday 6/23/2012 Surfers Paradise (Gold Coast) – A Lazy Saturday by Ian Shepherd
Not much happening as a group today. We did catch a few of our students for breakfast and got to share in the lovely hot buffet breakfast downstairs. Many of the students planned on hitting the beaches today and walking down town to the main part of town that has lots of ritzy stores…and lots of restaurants and activities for tourists.
Tomorrow some of our students are flying up to the Great Barrier Reef for a day of exploration. Pray for their safety.
Sunday – June 24, 2012 Surfers Paradise (Gold Coast) by Ian Shepherd
A great lazy day as we were able to sleep in because our worship was scheduled for 7:00 pm tonight. We had our wonderful breakfast and then opened up our apartment for students to work during the day on whatever internet assignments they needed to complete. The internet has been incredibly expensive here. We will plan on budgeting more for this access in future trips.
As we gathered for worship many of the students were beaming and excited about their experiences. Many had gone to the national 
park and bush walked. Several had gone to a beach and had gone scuba diving for the first time. Another group took a charter flight up to the Great Barrier Reef to visit Lady Elliot Island. Here is a snippet of what they experienced!
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At Lady Elliot Island on the Great Barrier Reef, you can step off the beach and snorkel, swim or dive in an underwater holiday world of brilliantly colored species of marine life, or just simply relax and soak in the natural island atmosphere. The lagoon protects and nurtures the curiosity of the beginners while a little further out experienced snorkelers and divers descend to see the coral gardens.
Lady Elliot Island is one of only three island resorts on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, and the only resort with direct flight access to the island airstrip. The island is located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in the highest possible classification of Marine National Park Zone by GBRMPA. Lady Elliot is an island teeming with life and live corals, famous for a resident population of 40 Manta Rays which form the iconic logo of the island.
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At about 6 pm, Matt and Tish Harris (ACU and COBA graduates) who are vocational missionaries in Ipswich, Queensland dropped by to 
lead our worship. It is amazing to be able to travel around the world and run into people you have known for many years. Matt is the son of Dr. Scott and Leonie Stovall. Matt spoke to us about his passion for lay ministry where you work in the country and spread the kingdom through your life experience and house church. We also had a time of prayer as a request for Puneet who has friends back home in the USA who are being evacuated due to large fires. We also prayed for Rachel Jinkerson Goodman who will be undergoing surgery on Tuesday for cancer. Keep Darryl in your prayers as well as he will be with our students rather than his daughter during her 12 hour surgery.
With only three days before we leave we spent a little time getting logistics worked out for the next few days. Monday is exam day. Tuesday is a 4 wheel drive tour with Southern Cross 4wd Driver/guide for a full day Window to the Wilderness (Tamborine & Lamington National Parks).
Wednesday is a kayak trip to South Stradbroke Island and then Thursday we leave.
by M. C. Jennings | Jul 17, 2012 | Uncategorized
Thursday 6/21/2012 – From Sydney to the Gold Coast and our Bandag Tour by Ian Shepherd
The day started early for many of us (5:30 am) as we got up and finished packing our many bags for the trek to Queensland. Our bus arrived at 8:00 am on time and dropped us a little early at Jetstar in the domestic terminal in Sydney. We had to wait about 30 minutes to check in and then made our way through security. (Security was much easier in Sydney than the USA for some reason). After a gate change we sat down and prepared ourselves for the trip. While waiting it struck me that there was something different about our 
students. Take a look at the airport pictures and notice how “Mobile” our students really are! iPads, iPhones, and laptops pounding away on almost all of our 22 students and 2 faculty. Our students were quite the picture of reliance and comfort that we are so renowned for in our push for mobility at ACU.
Our flight to the Gold Coast was a noisy one with a young child having problems with their ears. There is nothing worse than a young child who is screaming because their ears hurt and they don’t know how to pop them to clear the pressure. I felt so sorry for the parents. It was quite terrible for them.
Our bus driver picked us up on time and we made our way to the Bandag plant in Ipswich Queensland. The tour was extraordinary again with the students asking great questions. Take a look at the production process pictures that will be uploaded today to get an idea of how the tires are made (much like waffles).
After Bandag we made our way to the hotel. Oh my goodness! It is extraordinarily incredible. This hotel is much nicer than the Adina hotel in Sydney. Take a look at the pictures of the apartment the Darryl Jinkerson and I are in. It is mansion like. 
Tomorrow we will finalize class notes and some of us are going deep see fishing! That will be fun.
Friday June 22, 2012 First day in Surfers Paradise (The Gold Coast) by Ian Shepherd
We arrived at the Mantra Sun City after our tour of Bandag and the students thought they were in Disneyland. The hotel is definitely a high end resort with apartments larger than some of our houses. You have your choice of three pools (2 outside and 1 inside heated) and 2 Hot tubs (1 outside 
and 1 inside). The largest pool has water slides (but it is not heated).
The weather here is beautiful. The temperature is very mild and even warm during the day. We have used the outside pools and hot tubs with no one freezing to death. Our breakfast together today was interesting. When we booked the hotel the coupon came with a free full breakfast for each person in all our rooms. At $22 per breakfast we worked out that the breakfast alone for 7 days and 24 people costs $3,696.00. Now…someone somewhere must have messed up because…we didn’t pay that much for the rooms so Dr. J and I think someone somewhere messed up. In any case, we are taking advantage of this hot breakfast buffet. This morning I looked over at the boys table and there were plates piled everywhere. The girls did not let us down as well.
Having eaten so well almost all of us skipped lunch and just ate a light dinner. We baked fresh tuna fish from our fishing today and had so much 
left over that we invited other students to drop by and eat some fresh Aussie fish. About 9 students did so and really enjoyed the food. I liked the fact that they wanted to hang around and visit as well. I feel that this group is forming a bond that will bind us all together for the rest of our lives. I think I can honestly say that “Study Abroad” has changed our student’s lives…!
Some of our students shopped a little today and a few went to the beach and swam (remember, its winter time here). The weather is so pleasant!
by M. C. Jennings | Jul 11, 2012 | Uncategorized
Tuesday 6/19/2012 – Sydney University – Sydney by Ian Shepherd
Today we had class both in the hotel for Dr. J and at Sydney University for my group. We made our way there at 9:00 am sharing cabs this time. The day was very quiet as most students knew that this was the last day to get free internet so many were working on journals and assignments.
One of our students was not well the last day and a half. It is no fun to feel sick while traveling overseas. After a rough night with migraine we finally found a Chemist (Pharmacy) who recommended a migraine specific over the counter drug. She is doing better but still is not quite feeling back to normal.
Tomorrow is our last day in Sydney. Lots to do as we pack and verify travel plans to the Gold Coast. Our last official class days will be Friday and Monday with other days being free or tour days.
Pray for us as we travel! I hear the students are reporting that they are having a great time. I am so proud of how they have represented themselves. Parents…you have done well!
Wednesday 6/20/12 – Last day in Sydney by Ian Shepherd
After a last day of class in Sydney we planned on cooking for our group. This afternoon we set off to Woolworths to load up on hamburger makings 
and hot dogs. Strangely enough, we couldn’t find any hot dog buns or wieners so we settled on good old Aussie Snags (Sausages). We had about 36 burgers and maybe 36 snags…and by the end of the evening…we had exactly…..ZERO! The last student showed up and ate the last 3 burgers on one bun!
Excellent inventory planning and great operational expertise were used in our production process tonight. I might also say that Darryl Jinkerson displayed wonderful management style as he maneuvered himself around the huge Aussie BBQ’s (2 
in fact). After a wonderful dinner together some of the students set out for one last night on the town.
Pray for us tomorrow as we travel again that all might go well.
