Year 11 International Private Students Buddy Program

The primary purpose of this program is to provide individualised assistance and
transition for the new International Private Students at Canberra College. Buddy students will assist students in adapting to a new country, culture, and environment.

The Canberra College buddy program is a volunteer program where year eleven students will have the opportunity to exchange their cultural experiences and to develop cross-cultural communication skills with the new bridging students. The program is all about exchanging experiences, making international friendships and learning about different cultures. This program is open to all year eleven students of Canberra College.
Why participate in the International Student Buddy Program?

To add spice and diversity to your group of friends, organisation, or club!
To become more culturally aware further your knowledge and interest of other countries
To mentor international students pays off. You will experience first hand your buddy improvement of his/her English language skills. It also gives you the opportunity to learn a little about your buddy’s language.
To have a friend in another country to visit! Experiencing the way people really live and interact in the country instead of using a tour guide.
To help make Canberra College a unique, diverse place to go to school and to experience more than just classes but other cultures first hand!

What can I do with my international buddy?

Meet for lunch in the canteen or meet together once or twice a week for coffee
Study together. Many of the international students have more work because they must deal with the language barrier as well. Doing work together will help make the transition easier and is always more fun!
Develop a friendship with them that could potentially last a lifetime
Getting to know and becoming friends with an international student can be exciting, different, but also a little tough at times. The language barrier can hinder communication between you and your buddy at the beginning, but as you work together you will notice the increase in your partner’s vocabulary and willingness to speak.

Therefore, there are some criteria that need to be met, to make sure that you will commit to a relationship and work through any language issues there may be. You may find this process a little frustrating, but very rewarding in the end. Some things to think about are listed below:

Can you be patient and help the international students work through their difficulties with the English language? This may make getting to know your buddy a little bit more difficult and time consuming.
Are you willing to spend at least 2 hours a week with your international buddy?
Are you willing to commit yourself to your buddy for one semester or longer

If so, we are excited about your interest in this program and would like you to fill out an application ( over) and meet with us! You can be assured that this program will provide many opportunities and benefits for both you and your international buddy!
Any questions please see Barbara Jackson in the Arts faculty office.