Monash International was preparing for the worst when the Asian crisis began 12 months ago. But the worst didn't happen, and instead of falling off sharply as the economic crunch came, Monash's overseas student population increased.
Official figures released for March 1998 indicated that international student numbers rose by an unexpected nine per cent from the previous year. While the crisis did result in a slight drop in student numbers from some Asian countries, including Malaysia, numbers from other countries such as India, China and Japan increased.
According to Monash International general manager Mr Tony Pollock, the surprising overall increase in international student numbers can be explained by the fact that parents of international students are concerned about the impact the crisis is likely to have on their children's future.
"Parents of international students are planning for the future," he says. "And to safeguard their children from the short and long-term impacts of the crisis, they are taking any measures they can to send them to Australia."
But while Monash is proud of its growing international student population as well as its growing presence offshore, Mr Pollock says it has not overlooked the immediate effects of the Asian crisis on current students.
Many students have had to return to their home countries immediately, while others will be forced to return as soon as they have completed their studies.
"It is fair to say that international students have special needs. Settling into another country and embracing a new culture is very difficult, particularly when they don't know what is happening in their home country."
Monash International has introduced a range of measures to support international students, including a flexible pay system, counselling services and forums to inform them of the aid mechanisms available.
"Being flexible and culturally sensitive is a must in this global environment," Mr Pollock says.