Orientation / July 2009

Last Updated on Thursday, 10 September 2009 00:49 Written by Andrew Lai Sunday, 19 July 2009 23:56

Twelve days, three orientations, some very tired staff and a few hundred students later the orientations for July 2009 has finished. All of our students have arrived safely in their respective universities and accommodation.

Orientations were held at Narrabeen Academy of Sport and many activities were held. Upon arrival the students were driven through the city of Sydney and over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. After settling in to Narrabeen they were optionally issued with Mobile Phones and some of them stayed awake just long enough for a travel presentation in the evening, if anything they now have a few tips and pointers on how to make the most of their travel time in Australia.

Day two of orientation saw the students spending time at the world famous Taronga Zoo, much time was spent in with Zoo volunteers learning about the unique Australian Animals, some of which were also seen at Narrabeen! It was reported that a Kangaroo was spotted when they were out walking. After a morning spent at the Zoo we were treated to personal cruise around Sydney Harbour.

Day three of orientations was spent in presentations. Most of the time was divided into small groups and learning about the Australian Academic system, their universities, their local area and how to jumpstart life the next five months. We have also planned several Free vents for them in the next few months - from a sporting event to an amazing race around to Melbourne to a Farewell dinner and an adventure weekend - it's all part of the service that IFSA-Butler provides. In the night-time they were treated to a performance by some Indigenous dancers who described life as they know it, its something that not many Australians have the opportunity to see.

In the next few weeks the students will have their University specific orientation and begin their classes. We wish them all the best in the next five months and our SSC's who are located in many of the major cities in Australia and will be on hand to help them make the most out of their time in Australia.

Sincerely
Kate Hamilton
Director Australian Programs