How to survive as an international student in Australia
Embarking on international study and travel can be an exciting stage in one’s life, full of possibilities and new discoveries. A student visa to Australia provides you with an opportunity to gain a high-quality education and at the same time, travel and explore the country and experience the Australian lifestyle.
But it can also be daunting, especially if you have never travelled before, or been away from home for an extended period. This could be your first solo trip, or you may be coming from a non-English speaking country with a different culture to Australia. We are here to offer you some tips on how to make your experience as easy and positive as it can be, and to make the most of this opportunity. Read on for our advice on how to survive as an international student in Australia.
Organise your accommodation
One of the first things to do when you arrive in Australia is to arrange your accommodation. A good place to start your research is to contact your education institution. They can provide you with points of contact for student accommodation/residential colleges on, or close to campus. Your college may also have a public noticeboard and/or student newsletter for posting advertisements about accommodation that you could check.
You might like to consider renting or sharing with flatmates to help save money and meet new people. You can start with an internet search, as well as speaking with a local real estate agent who can advise you of any vacancies.
College/university support
Get in touch with your institution’s support services and reach out for help if you have questions or are seeking advice about study, campus, etc. Some institutions offer study preparation courses to help you with many aspects of study including IT, referencing, research and time management. A student union can also be a useful point of contact, as well as attending orientation week before study commences, which is designed to introduce you to the institution and help you to get started.
Socialise
One of the most exciting aspects of being an international student is the opportunity to meet people from all around the world. Australia is a popular choice for international students, with increasing numbers of student visa applications lodged in recent years. Sharing your experience with others can make the process easier and more positive, especially if you are feeling homesick or isolated in your new environment. Human support is the best way to overcome this, therefore try to get involved in social activities.
A good place to start are your student colleagues, with whom you can share your common experiences and provide support and advice to one another as you embark on your journey together. Also try to form contacts with locals outside of your study contacts, so that you can really get involved in the Australian lifestyle and get a local perspective. Australians are friendly and welcoming people, and you are bound to find many who are willing to help you settle and make this as best an experience as possible.
There are often on-campus activities and student clubs/societies in different areas of interest which you can join, such as sports teams, culture and politics. This is a great way to meet people who share your common interests.
Explore and travel
Use your spare time during study breaks and weekends to travel around and explore Australia. There is so much to see, do and discover about this great country. Beautiful beaches, parks, reefs, flora and fauna are just some of the natural wonders to explore. Australia also offers a rich cultural experience, with a multitude of restaurants, cafes, art galleries and museums to visit. As a student visa holder, you can freely travel around Australia for the term of your visa.
Employment
As a student visa holder, you will have limited work rights in Australia. A part-time job will enable you to earn some extra money to help fund your stay and also to experience working life in Australia. You can search for opportunities online, or enquire with local retail outlets, restaurants or cafes for any vacancies they may have.
Constantine Paxinos – director of PAX Migration Australia