Above: Berwick resident Glenda Mattingley accompanies Monash University Berwick student Nonie to her Monash University graduation ceremony. A FOREIGN land with few friends and fewer familiar faces would be a daunting task for most of us.
But this is the reality for some of the 500 international students learning at Monash University Berwick.
University officials are trying to alleviate the isolation by encouraging Casey residents to volunteer their time for the International Student Friendship Program (ISFP).
The program aims to match about 50 students with volunteers from the City of Casey community.
Berwick resident and ISFP volunteer Glenda Mattingley is finding the experience 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.”
Project manager Jennifer Weber 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,” Ms Weber said.
Ms Mattingley says it is easy to become a volunteer and let the student be part of your normal life.
“For example, inviting the student to family barbecues and community events that I would normally go to,” she said.
“It is such a little effort but a huge benefit for myself and my student.”
Research conducted by Monash 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.
Interested volunteers can contact the project coordinator, Renee De Simone, on 9905 3186.
