AusAID students say “G’day” to Flinders

ausaid-studentsFlinders University’s internationally renowned Introductory Academic Program (IAP) has a full house with the arrival of one of the largest ever cohorts of AusAID-sponsored postgraduate students.

The challenges of postgraduate study are only magnified by the prospect of studying in a foreign country, but the 98 students from 22 countries are being well prepared for life and study in Australia by the staff of the University’s Student Learning Centre (SLC).

Over January and February, SLC staff spend an intensive five-week period with the new arrivals, presenting sessions that range from the practical to the whimsical, from Australian academic writing conventions and familiarisation with statistical packages  to honing their presentation skills and learning the right way to say ‘G’day mate!’ in a popular seminar on Australian slang.

“Loneliness and isolation, more than almost any other factor, can contribute to a negative experience of international study,” said Associate Professor Salah Kutieh, Head of the SLC.

“The IAP places each student within a peer group from their first day at Flinders and keeps them together while they find their feet in a new academic and cultural environment. Many students from past IAPs report fruitful academic partnerships and life-long friendships which have sprung from these formative first weeks.”

And it is not all work: fun is an integral part of the SLC’s mission for the new arrivals, and the IAP is interspersed with barbeques, bush dances and a day trip to Victor Harbor, where they feast on fish and chips and come face-to-face with some native Australian fauna.

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One thought on “AusAID students say “G’day” to Flinders

  1. I am strongly recognized that this IAP contribute to my new life regarding the adaptation to the new environment, systems, cultures and various skills for my academics life.

    I am personally found it is a vital bridge to be success in this great place, university and in term of quality of life, education system and all supportive behavior from all University staff and lecture at this University.

    I would like to thanks for all warm welcome, and support from all University staff.

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