Making the most of your time in Australia

Speak up; be a part of things!

For many international students, a common and natural tendency is to congregate amongst themselves. Whilst this is OK and feels comfortable, unfortunately some students do not shift out of this comfort zone by mixing with Australian students and the community, to really make the most of their Australian experience.

Many final year and completed/returning-home students express regret at this fact, conceding 'I wish I had', for several reasons.

Firstly, many students wish they'd practised, spoken and communicated in English more in order to build confidence and capability in social and professional situations. This need for non-native speakers to hone their English language skill is confirmed by student feedback from our interview practice sessions, indicating that students with limited English struggle and feel disadvantaged when going for jobs in Australia.
Secondly, (and not exclusively to those from non-English-speaking backgrounds) by not allocating time for (or simply not getting involved in) wider activities on campus, volunteering and work, they realise now that they limited their range of experiences and consequently, opportunities for personal and professional development.

Often, the compound result is that completed/returning-home students have not established strong work experience portfolios, professional networks and relationships with people on campus, work colleagues and supervisors, which can make finding reliable referees for future employment very difficult.

Understandably, making the first move is difficult and daunting, but, remember you've already done extremely well in taking the huge initial step of leaving home for a whole new country. Why stop now?

Take one more step: a challenge

If you are shy and reserved, self-conscious about speaking English in public, you're not alone. You are in a learning environment, so it's okay to make a few mistakes and to ask for help if you get stuck, because you too are learning . Obviously, in general you aim to achieve well academically, but involvement in presentation, team and communication tasks in particular can boost your English language and comprehension significantly.

Outside University, other skills developed through living away from home are not to be ignored either. Independently managing your budget, household affairs and time effectively all require self-discipline and skill, helping to make you more self-aware, personable, confident and employable.

Be comfortable with the fact that your skills will develop, with practice, along the way and just enjoy your Australian experience and your time at Monash.

Take one more step and seize the opportunity today, to:

Meet and make friends with coursemates - the ones you share classes and activities with - both Australian and international. A few friendly faces can be a great support.
Get to know the people who teach you and provide services on campus - lecturers, tutors, course coordinators, faculty administration and campus services staff. Try to connect with people who may be in a reliable position to vouch for you (eg. as a referee, if you are applying for work).
Get involved - socially, on campus, or in the community - in order to build relationships. Volunteer. Join club committees. Whatever it is, simply participate.

Getting out there: helpful starting points

> Monash University International Division - International Students Orientation
> Monash University International Division - International Students Support
> Monash University International Division - Making friends at Uni

Improve your public speaking and communication skills

Stay one step ahead. Sharpen up your communication and speaking skills to feel more confident about speaking English in public, whether it be presenting in class, interviewing for jobs or just getting to know your classmates.

For relevant courses, information and services, visit:

> Monash University - Language and Learning Online
> Monash Short Courses Centre - Communication Courses
> FAQs about public speaking (c/- Rostrum Australia)
> Rostrum Victoria (or try the Monash Clayton club under 'Clubs'/'Locate a Suburban Club')
> Toastmasters International, District 73 (incl. Victoria, Aust.) , or try the Monash Clayton club

Some programs may be provided for a fee. Check, before signing up.