Cambridge International College understands that students may require extra support to help them cope with living and studying in a foreign country. This support is provided by the CIC Student Welfare Team which comprises professional and friendly staff qualified to assist students in a broad range of areas, including counselling (and referrals where appropriate). The service is free and confidential.
Why would I meet with someone from the Student Welfare Team?
Many students experience difficulties when they move to a new country. For international students these difficulties can be made worse because of the need to adjust to a new culture, language, living situation, and different academic expectations. Below is a list of some of the issues which you may raise with the Student Welfare Team:
Understanding and adapting to the Australian way of life
Feeling lonely / homesick and coping without family and friends
Relationship issues
Issues pertaining to accommodation or finances
Time management/ issues related to studying
Becoming the victim of a crime or having an accident
Childcare or concerns about your children
Experiencing religious conflicts or confusion
Concerns about body image
We want students to learn successful strategies for dealing with these issues and enjoy their time studying at Cambridge International College.
How can I arrange to see someone from Student Welfare?
The Student Welfare Team is available to meet with students individually or in groups, on Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 5:30pm.You can request for an appointment outside these hours.
What happens next?
Once you are given the appointment time and place, the student counsellor will explain confidentiality.
It is probable that the student counsellor will take some notes of the meeting for their records, should you need to visit more than once. After the meeting a decision will be made as to what assistance from the Student Welfare Team is best suited to you. You may just need some basic information or someone to see and talk to, regularly.
Can my family or partner use the Student Welfare Team?
Yes. We want to ensure that you are well supported at CIC. If your partner has a problem that affects you or your study then they can also make an appointment to see the Student Welfare Team.
Counselling may not be something that you are familiar with in your country, or it may be something that only people who have severe problems access. In Australia it is a common way of working through your problems to go to a professional person and talk about your concerns in a safe, friendly and private environment. In discussions your nationality, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and age difference are totally accepted and respected.
