My experience as an international host (Issue 7, 2012)
La Trobe Times has previously profiled Ana Garcia about her time at La Trobe, this time we are getting her story about her volunteering experience.
My name is Ana Garcia and I am currently undertaking a Master of Education at
La Trobe University. This is my second and final year and I am really enjoying my second time at university after having finished my Bachelor in Spain quite a few years ago.
One of the things that caught my attention about La Trobe was all the opportunities available for students to get involved in university life, including volunteer activities. So, for my second time at university, I decided I really wanted to do more than just attend lectures and write assignments – I wanted to volunteer while at university.
I found out about the La Trobe Award and learned that not only would my volunteer work be recognised on my academic transcript, but that I also had the opportunity to complete valuable training modules. I thought it was a really good opportunity to improve my personal and interpersonal skills as well as getting a certificate that would add value to my academic record and resume. I was also attracted by the fact that volunteer work is highly regarded by Australian companies and that it would be a great way of undertaking work experience in this country.
My first volunteer activity was as a host at the International Welcome Festival. Here I had the chance to meet new students from all around the world and help them settle down at La Trobe. I still remember when I was a new international student myself, and how the Festival made me feel welcome.
In my opinion, these activities make a real difference in the way Australian universities support their students and I thought it was a good opportunity to help other international students. The experience was great and I think the hosts all did a good job in assisting students with their different type of enquiries.
During the first week, my role was on the information table where I gave information about University services and answered questions international students had. I also helped students enrol, check their timetable and offer advice about the subjects I had already undertaken.
It is a truly rewarding experience when a student smiles back at you with thanks at the help you’ve just given them. To sum up, being an international host was a valuable experience on many levels: as a way of acquiring interpersonal skills and experience and the personal satisfaction that comes from knowing that you have helped someone in some way.
I am currently working as a student learning advisor at the University’s library, where I help students do research, use the library resources and give them advice about assignments and exams. I am enjoying this experience since it helps me develop skills related to my field of study – Education – and I can help students by using my knowledge about academic skills and life at La Trobe University.
I am sure my previous experience as an international host has been really helpful in getting this job where I can keep developing my skills in communication with students from a variety of backgrounds. I will also undertake the training modules offered by La Trobe Award and I am looking forward to helping out as a volunteer at the University or in the community.
I truly encourage students to volunteer and take the opportunities that La Trobe offers in order to acquire valuable experience, skills and training.
