Swinburne Univ launches scheme to integrate foreigners into Aus culture

City-based Swinburne University is launching an initiative for the international students to integrate into Australian culture through a talk about quintessential Melbourne pastimes.

“Swinburne is helping to educate international students by not only focusing on technical skills and formal qualifications,but also teaching them about broader Australian culture which will help them to fit into the workplace,” Swinburne’s international career consultant Olivia Doyle said.

As part of a workshop preparing students for local job market,Hawthorn Football Club’s Michael Nguyen will introduce the students to AFL and teach some basic football skills as well as City of Boroondara Youth Officer Cobina Crawford will give an overview of Melbourne’s iconic music culture.

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“The talk will centre on an almost anthropological exploration of Melbourne’s myriad of music subcultures – Emos,Hipsters,Shufflers,Bogans – and everything in between,” Crawford said.

“The recent Save Live Australian Music Rally drawing thousands into the city in defence of live venues is testament to the thriving underground music culture that makes Melbourne truly unique.”

“Equipping students with the kind of nuanced cultural knowledge that falls through the cracks of most induction programs,the talk will enable students to move confidently into the city’s diverse cultural life – enriching both study and social experiences along the way.”

“Football and music are topics Australians use when making small talk – for example during tea and coffee breaks or even at the start of job interview or meeting. We are trying to help international students feel more confident,as well as enable them to speak about general topics they can use to engage with and feel part of their work team.”

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The workshop is said to be held as part of a series of seminars tailored to meet the needs of international students.