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Fast-tracking a home away from home

21 February 2007

From left: Mary Daley, Dinakar Palaparti, and Ed Neff enjoy making the most of their time together. Ed and his wife Mary met Dinakar through the International Student Friendship Program.

Want a snag? What's the difference between a sickie and wagging? Or are they the same thing?

Monash University accepts thousands of the world's leading students to study each year. But it's sometimes a great challenge for international students to come to grips with Australian culture.

In order to ease the transition for international students, the University has introduced an innovative program that links everyday Australians with international students -- one that has been swamped with demand.

Coordinator of the International Student Friendship Program, Renee de Simone, said there had been strong demand from international students and, consequently, the program would be keen to hear from more Melbournians willing to participate.

"This program offers students a look at the real Australia -- and already we are seeing great results, with many students gaining great new social links with Melbourne people," Ms de Simone said.

"We pride ourselves on the fair go, and have a strong reputation as a friendly country. International students contribute a great deal to Australia, providing an important source of skilled workers and an invaluable cultural contribution to the life of our universities."

"We would be delighted to hear from any Melbournians interested in participating -- it can involve as little as a couple of hours each week."

Just months into the International Friendship program, matching Mr Ed Neff and his family with Indian Mechanical Engineering PhD student Mr Dinakar Palaparti was just one of the program's many success stories.

When Mr Neff responded to an advertisement calling for volunteers, he wasn't sure what to expect.

Weeks on, Mr Neff and his family are enjoying the opportunity to exchange experiences with Mr Palaparti in what could one day be the friendship of a lifetime.

"Meeting Dinakar has been a great experience for us and our family, and we really enjoy the exchange of information," Mr Neff said.

It's been six months since Dinakar arrived in Melbourne, but after a few weeks in the International Friendship program, he says it already feels like home.

For more information on how you can participate in the International Student Friendship Program, visit the website or contact Project Coordinator Renee de Simone on 9905 3186 or by e-mail on renee.simone@adm.monash.edu.au.