Maximizing your experience as an international student in South Australia
Photo: International Students Support events at the University of Adelaide
As an international student, it can be an overwhelming experience to move to a foreign country, away from family and friends, in a different environment surrounded by new people. However, there are many ways that international students can make South Australia their new home and maximize their experience here. There are plenty of events, activities and friends to keep you occupied while you adjust to your new home away from home.
Things you can do to make yourself at home in South Australia
Participate in extracurricular clubs and sports
Every university in South Australia has hundreds of student groups across various categories. Students run clubs based on their unique interests, cultures, religions, politics, arts, sports and more! Whether you want to join a club where you feel most comfortable, or take up a new challenge, be sure to join in a few activities to add variety to your days.
Indulge in different foods
Australian food culture does not solely consist of kangaroos and crocodiles! Australia is a multicultural nation with cuisines from around the world, such as Chinese, Indian, Afghan, Italian, Malaysian, Singaporean and Vietnamese to name a few. There is something to suit everyone’s taste buds. Some famous foodie-friendly places to visit include Hahndorf, the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. Within the Adelaide Central business district (CBD), there are many great food places, especially around Rundle Mall, Rundle Street Hindley Street and Gouger Street.
Meet new people
Clubs and sports teams are great ways to meet people within the university, but you may want to meet people outside the university community as well. Check with your local council’s community events web page or use apps like Eventbrite or Meetup to see all that is happening in your area. The South Australian community is always buzzing with different events, which means there is always lots to do and many new people to meet, throughout the year.
Take time to travel
Some popular tourist spots within South Australia include Kangaroo Island, Victor Harbor, Barossa Valley, Cleland Wildlife Park, Mount Lofty, Glenelg beach, Henley beach, Middleton beach (surfing), Monarto Safari Park, Adelaide Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Zoo. Australia is a large country with many different things to see and experience. Even within South Australia and the Adelaide metro area, you can explore diverse landscapes, enjoy fun activities, or even spot wild animals. Whether you want to go on an epic road trip or find something closer to home base, Australia has something to satisfy your travel ambitions.
Use your support system
Your chosen college or university will have ample resources and support groups to help you navigate your stay with them. If you need help, there is likely a way to support you. Check out some of the resources below:
International Students Club
The international students club at your university will host various events and activities throughout the year. Take part in the different activities and attend the events they organize – this is a great chance to mingle with other international students and make friends.
SAcommunity spoke with Nathan Dunn, a chemical engineering student and an International Peer Mentor at the University of Adelaide, a role in which he helps other international students adjust to Adelaide. Nathan says he took on this role because he enjoys hearing about different cultures and backgrounds and wanted to hear the stories people from different cultures have to share.
“I would recommend getting out there and making use of all the events we host. As part of our International Students Support, we primarily host CommuniTea, a weekly gathering for international students to socialize. Then, a few times in the semester, we host the Language & Cultural engagement nights, where we choose a particular country’s theme. The nights are full of food, opportunities to learn about that country, partake in activities and make new friends,” Nathan says.
International Student Services
International Student Services have advisors to help with personal issues, financial issues, problems with visas, study-related problems or even settling into South Australia. Check out your university website to find out how you can get in touch with an advisor.
Writing Centre
The Writing Centre helps students develop their skills as writers. This service is open to everyone, regardless of skill level, so book an appointment with an advisor to improve your writing, especially if English is not your first language.
English Language Centre
The English Language Centre offers a range of general and academic English language programs. Some also provide short courses for international students. Use this service to improve your English reading, writing and speaking abilities.
Maths Learning Centre
Like the Writing Centre and the English Language Centre, the Maths Learning Centre exists to help students succeed with their maths-related coursework. Set up an appointment or head to the Centre during drop-in hours to get the support you need.
Career Support
Career Support is an excellent platform for students looking for job opportunities and internships. Career support also hosts workshops, resources and other events to help you. Check out their resources on your university’s website or book an appointment to speak with an advisor.
Counselling and well-being
There is free counselling and support services available to students, to address issues affecting their studies and life. Counselling services can help with issues related to study, relationships, mental health, family crisis, sexual assault and more. There will always be someone willing to talk to you, if required.
Disability support
Students with a diagnosed disability or an existing medical condition can get help with adjustments to attendance, assignment extensions, alternate services or exam arrangements. Speak with a disability advisor to find information on how they can help you.
Find out more
See the University of Adelaide, University of South Australia, Flinders University and Torrens University websites on student life and support programs.
