12 February 2007
Monash University Berwick is seeking volunteers from the City of Casey community to take part in an exciting new program designed to enhance the experience of the university's international students.
The International Student Friendship Program (ISFP), already a huge success at the Monash Clayton campus, aims to match about 50 students with volunteers from the City of Casey community.
Project Manager Mrs Jennifer Weber, from University Community Services, said the volunteers would provide friendship and support, as well as information on community resources and opportunities for participation in local community events.
"That could mean meeting up with the students for a cup of coffee and a chat, or sometimes inviting the students into their homes to share meals with their family," Mrs Weber said. The volunteers would need to be available on a regular basis, she said.
Berwick resident and ISFP volunteer Glenda Mattingley found the experience to be extremely worthwhile.
"You can learn so much from interacting with a young person from another culture," Ms Mattingley said. "I have gained a sense of satisfaction knowing I have made a difference to a young person's life just by being part of it."
Ms Mattingley found participating in the ISFP to be a "breeze".
"It is easy to be a volunteer as you let the student be part of your normal life. For example, inviting the student to family bbq's and community events that I would normally go to. It is such a little effort but a huge benefit for myself and my student," she said.
Research into the wellbeing of international students has shown 41 per cent have difficulty adjusting to living and studying in Melbourne. Providing them with opportunities to mix with locals, use English off campus and feel connected with the wider community were the key factors in achieving a successful adjustment, the research found.
Monash University Berwick is seeking to recruit volunteers from not only the City of Casey community but also through Monash University's post-graduate student and alumni networks. The community-based Monash Volunteer Resource Centre will screen volunteers and provide initial volunteer training.
Berwick resident and ISFP participant Glenda Mattingley is available for interview.
For more information contact the project coordinator, Renee De Simone, on 9905 3186, or renee.simone@adm.monash.edu.au, or Karen Petersen, Campus Marketing Manager -- Berwick and Peninsula on 9904 7005 or karen.petersen@adm.monash.edu.au
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