Could you buddy up with an international student? A fun, new program has been developed by Study Geelong to provide a support for international tertiary students in Geelong and local community members, to build connections, share interests and enjoy cross-cultural exchange.
They are looking for individuals or families in the Geelong region to participate in the program and help show an international student what a friendly, amazing place Geelong is. The International Friends Program matches an international tertiary student in Geelong with a local person or family for 12 weeks to get to know each other and share culture.
International Friends is not a live-in hosting program. Study Geelong runs a couple of events for all participants, but it is up to the international student and local person/family to arrange when and how they will catch-up during the program. You can meet virtually or face to face – in line with COVID-19 restrictions.
There are currently around 2,000 international students in Geelong from a variety of countries. Students who arrived at the start of the year have not had the chance to explore the region or make local connections due to the pandemic. It has been challenging for many students being isolated and away from their families and friends back home. The International Friends Program provides an opportunity for locals to show that we are a welcoming and inclusive community. You can develop friendships with students from around the world, enjoy sharing your favourite places to go in Geelong, the Australian culture, language, food and your interests and hobbies. You will also learn about another culture and develop intercultural skills.
If interested please apply before 30 October. There will be an online orientation session on 10 November at 5.30pm. For further information and to apply go to http://studygeelong.com.au/international-friends-program
Study Geelong is a program of Tourism Greater Geelong & The Bellarine in partnership with education providers in Geelong. The program promotes Geelong as a study destination and helps international students make the most of their stay in Geelong.
You can view Study Geelong’s inspiring video on our YouTube Channel, it’s part of the Humans in Geelong Online Expo 2020.
Photo supplied.
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