USU Airport Welcome Program will greet up to 2000 International students - 17 February 2010

University of Sydney Union Airport Welcome Program will greet up to 2000 International students

Innovative service aims to address negative perceptions of studying in Australia.
 
In a move aimed at countering negative perceptions about studying in Australia, a new program has been launched which will extend a welcoming hand to international students arriving in Sydney.

The University of Sydney Union (USU) has commenced its ‘Airport Welcome Program’ at Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport and hopes to personally greet some 2000 ‘first year’ students.

The program is part of the USU’s ‘International ‘O Week’ celebrations which provide arriving international students with an in-depth orientation to the University of Sydney and what it has to offer.

"Our ‘Airport Welcome Program’ is one of the most important activities undertaken by the Union," said CEO Paul McJannett.

"By welcoming students as they get off the plane, we are sending a strong message that international students are warmly welcomed to Australia."

"It is critical that we provide an easy transition for international students as they commence their studies far from home, family and friends."

The ‘Airport Welcome Program’ features:

• A team of 15 student volunteers

• A welcome service at Sydney International Airport starting at 630am every day

• Advice to students on travel from the airport, short term accommodation and information about student life on campus

“We anticipate providing services for up to 2000 international ‘first year’ students in 2010," said Mr. McJannett.

"It is vital that students have access to the services and information they need as they arrive to commence fist semester studies and that is exactly what USU is doing."

"I have no doubt that this innovative program will go a long way to ensuring that international students feels welcome and safe as they start their studies in Australia," he said.

View SBS Report

Media Contact – Julian Brophy