Making a local connection

Moving to a new country to study can be a daunting experience – but University of Melbourne alumni are making it easier for one group of international students.

Each semester, the Welcome to Melbourne program pairs alumni with Australia Awards (formerly AusAID) Scholarship students arriving in the city.

Typically the hosts invite the students to share a home-cooked meal, visit one of Melbourne’s hidden gems, or enjoy a snack at one of the city’s famed cafes.

The local connection helps the students settle into Melbourne life. Since the program’s launch in 2009, more than 500 students have been matched with hosts. Many of the pairings have developed enduring friendships.

The students are undertaking postgraduate studies and come from developing nations around the world, including countries in Africa, South East Asia and the Pacific. New hosts are always welcome. To register your interest in taking part, contact the Alumni Relations team at alumni-office@unimelb.edu.au or call +61 3 8344 1746.