Top Tips from Students with different Linguistic and Cultural Backgrounds

TOP TIPS SERIES

TOP TIPS FROM STUDENTS WITH DIFFERENT LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL BACKGROUNDS

COPYRIGHT Š Western Sydney University 2015 Published for digital publication May 2016 CRICOS Provider Code: 00917K Commonwealth of Australia Copyright Act 1968 Warning This material has been reproduced and communicated to you by or on behalf of the University of Western Sydney under Part VB of the Copyright Act 1968 (the Act).

The material in this communication may be subject to copyright under the Act. Any further reproduction or communication of this material by you may be the subject of copyright protection under the Act. Do not remove this notice.

Disclaimer This eBook provides information of a general nature only. If you would like to speak to someone regarding your personal circumstances, please contact the Western Sydney University Counselling or Welfare services.

More information about disclaimers, privacy and copyright at the University is available online.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We would like to acknowledge the students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds for generously sharing their Top Tips for study and success.

TOP TIPS SERIES

TOP TIPS FROM STUDENTS WITH DIFFERENT LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL BACKGROUNDS

CONTENTS

Introduction

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Prepare in advance

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Studying in English

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Cultural adjustments – you are not alone

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Participating in lectures and tutorials

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Time management and study strategies

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Maintaining your motivation and focus

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Finding help and information

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Caring for your health and wellbeing

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Information and services

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

INTRODUCTION Australia is a multicultural country. Western Sydney University reflects this, with students from more than 160 different countries and cultures. International students bring the world to Greater Western Sydney with global perspectives, multilingual skills, enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure.

Adding to the richness of cultural and linguistic diversity are the many of our students who may be second or third generation Australians but who have grown up with a range of cultural understanding and insights from families who migrated to Australia years or even decades before.

It is never easy to transplant your life and study, either temporarily or permanently, into another country or culture.

Challenges of language, culture-shock or homesickness can undermine your confidence and resolve.

This booklet has a collection of tips and hints from students, like you, who have struggled with similar difficulties. These experienced students have survived and succeeded in adapting to life and study in a new culture. The wisdom and insights they share in this publication can help you to succeed as well.

At Western Sydney University many students speak two or more languages and bring valuable insight, experience and understanding to share in their classes and with fellow students.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

In this booklet, all ‘top tips’ from experience students are marked with this symbol.

You may also see a notation about the first language of the student who contributed the tip. ∫ BACK TO CONTENTS

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

PREPARE IN ADVANCE Before you come to Western Sydney University, or even before you get to Australia, you can start to become familiar with the University, the culture and the physical surroundings.

Online preparation before the teaching session starts can give you some confidence as you navigate your way through your new surroundings.

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PLAN AHEAD

se the Western Sydney U U YouTube Channel and Google Maps to familiarise yourself with the campuses, features and surroundings. It will help you to feel like you’re in familiar surroundings.

I f you are unsure about what you want to study, choose something like a Bachelor of Arts where you get to experience a range of subjects – but if you are an International student you must make careful course choices or it could affect your Visa status.

WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP Before you start classes, watch the Introduction to Western video.

More videos about the University are available on the Western Sydney U YouTube channel .

Hear from a real student – what makes Western Sydney U different .

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ake sure you understand M the meanings of terminology and jargon. Get a dictionary of terms used in your course. Bookmark the University glossary of terms on your computer – you can find lots of useful services and information on this site. lan ahead and attend the P pre-session academic skills programs. There are wonderful free programs to help you improve your academic writing skills and other programs to help make your time at university less stressful.

WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP Check out the great range of free workshops , programs and online resources we offers that can help you improve your academic, maths, study and life skills.

Read A guide to study @ Western – it’s a great introduction.

You may also find these tips for a good first year helpful.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

STUDYING IN ENGLISH If English is not your first language it can be challenging to study and make friends while trying to understand the differences in language, humour or culture.

Adjustment will take time and effort, but it will be worth it. As you gain confidence and experience, you will find that the insights you bring from understanding multiple cultures will add value to your educational qualifications, your social and academic life and to the wider Australian community.

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LEARNING IN ENGLISH

se Google Translate but be U careful because it is not always right.

Compare translation software – Bing Translate appears to be more accurate in sentence structure. isten to songs in English.

L Sing along with them. se songs for the things U you want to remember in English. Make up a tune or use one you are familiar with. Songs, rhymes and music are all good memory tools. atch children’s shows on W TV. These can help you to get the language basics.

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bserve facial expressions O and body language. These might be different from your customs and they can help you understand what is being said or if you are saying anything that is strange to others. urn on the transcripts or T closed captions on videos.

Reading English as you hear it helps with pronunciation and understanding accents.

But be careful, not all captioning is accurate – you will soon work out which ones don’t make sense. onversation with English C speakers helps to sharpen your understanding and to get used to the speed and tempo of language.

sk about strange sayings A or jokes. If you hear something you don’t understand, don’t be afraid to ask someone to explain it. se an audio recorder (ask U for permission first), then review later in your own time with a dictionary. ake sure to read the M course material from vUWS readings and references before the lectures and tutorials. This can make it easier to understand.

(First language – Mandarin Chinese)

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isten to the news in L English. Watch movies to understand the flow of English. Speak English to people at home – it doesn’t matter if it’s not perfect, you need to practise to improve. earning to be more relaxed L helps, because when you’re not focused on how scared or anxious you are, you can listen better and are not too shy to make your voice heard. urround yourself in the S English language. Listen to English. Speak English.

Study in English. Practise this as much as you can. It becomes much easier and faster if you do this.

(First language - Sinhalese)

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I f you take photos of the lecture presentation remember to ask the lecturer for permission first. Also you can look for the lecture video or slides on your vUWS site for the Unit.

(First language - Mandarin) pend time learning with S other Western Sydney University students.

WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP The University offers a range of academic and English language support programs, including English pronunciation training , English conversation groups, PASSWrite and online resources.

Visit the Academic and English language support page for more information about workshops and online resources to help improve your academic and English language skills.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

CULTURAL ADJUSTMENTS – YOU ARE NOT ALONE It’s really common to find the challenges of studying in another language, foreign country, or different culture unexpectedly difficult and emotional.

Culture shock is a natural reaction and is something most students experience at some time. Even many Englishspeaking students feel awkward and overwhelmed as they make the transition to university life.

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COPING WITH HOMESICKNESS AND CULTURE SHOCK

xpect some culture shock.

E Even if you think you know what it will be like in a new culture there will always be surprises and challenges.

Don’t panic – it’s temporary and you will get through it.

(First language - Korean) emember everyone is R human and have their own struggles. Even if other students look confident they have probably been just as scared as you feel right now. xercise helps with stress.

E I had severe homesickness and also muscle pains from sitting and studying too long. I got better when I joined other students for regular basketball games on the campus basketball courts. (First language Japanese) omesickness is normal – it H is not a weakness. Try not to think about it too much, if you distract yourself it will help it pass.

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Stay active. Walking is free but make sure you walk in safe areas. Ask local students where is safer. You can also walk with friends or have walking study groups to make you fit and smart. ttend as many events and A activities as you can and create friendships. It may not be easy to break the barriers, but it is worth trying. You have to initiate conversation sometimes and be more proactive about getting involved. It is the best way to make friends and be part of the community – which then makes your experience a thousand times better.

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WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP Check out the list of 10 practical things you can do to help settle in and establish friendships.

It is important to acknowledge any difficulties as early as possible and take positive action. The Welfare Service and Counselling Service are free and confidential services for all Western Sydney University students that may be able to help with any issues you’re facing.

hen you feel W overwhelmed, find someone to talk to. Even if you feel shy, it’s worth the effort. Even if they can’t help you, they might know someone who can.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

PARTICIPATING IN LECTURES AND TUTORIALS It can be daunting to participate in class or online if English is not your first language or if you are unsure of some of the cultural differences or etiquette in your new study environment.

You can quickly learn what is expected of you and begin to enjoy taking an active part in class or group work. Remember that the diversity of your experience means you have a lot to offer.

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PARTICIPATE WITH CONFIDENCE

lways attend lectures! It A can be really easy to skip them if you don’t push yourself to go. Lecturers often give extra information that isn’t in the notes, so it’s worth turning up.

ay something and ask S questions in lectures and tutorials. Don’t be shy to speak up or afraid to contribute even if you’re unsure, it shows that you are interested and serious.

on’t worry too much D about your accent. Native English speakers have lots of different accents that even they find hard to understand. (First language - Korean)

ou are allowed to ask Y questions. The lecturers and tutors are happy for you to ask questions if you are not sure about something. Other students might be secretly glad you asked the question they were too shy to ask.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

There is no such thing as a silly question. lways read the readings A and references before classes, which you can get from vUWS. That way you have a better idea what is being said. (First language - Mandarin)

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TIME MANAGEMENT AND STUDY STRATEGIES Learning new things and studying in a different language takes extra energy, concentration and time.

These time management and study tips from experienced students can help you to make the most of your time and energy as you study at Western Sydney University.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

STUDY TIPS

eing serious about your B studies can make your time as a student more enjoyable. evote time to understand D the wording used in essay questions, match the word with the correct definition.

Understanding of the terminology is a crucial part in finding the correct answers. (First language – Arabic) I f you are stuck for ideas go back to your Unit Outline and Learning Guide. These will remind you of the key ideas and outcomes you are striving for in each unit.

Break assignments down into smaller bits to be more achievable. o avoid stress think of T study like a game. Take it seriously but remember to enjoy the experience. igest new knowledge D immediately. Don’t put it off because next week there will be a whole lot more to work through.

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on’t panic – take your D time. It is easy to make silly mistakes if you are filled with stress or are rushing. o the work of preparation D – e.g. reading for assignments before you start writing them. lways get a friend or A family member to read through assignments. They can see things that you might have missed. earn to use spell check.

L English spelling can be strange but the spell check tool can help so you don’t lose marks unnecessarily.

Check everything and then check again. Especially online – make sure that the thing has actually been submitted. o not try to cram, plan D ahead! Do topics that you are having problems with and discuss with friends to exchange ideas. (First language - Tagalog)

ake good use of travel M time. You can study on a bus or train. o not leave studying and D assignments to the last minute.

Learn to love the Library – I wish I had used the Library more.

WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP ‘New to the Library’ is a quick guide that points to key information to help when starting out.

It includes ‘know now’ links to information that is essential when you’re new to University and ‘know later’ links to items that will be useful down the track.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Be organised, this will help keep you stay sane during busy assessment periods.

Get your references and sources sorted as soon as possible. tay up to date with the S materials of each unit, otherwise you will get behind and it is very hard to catch up. uy some earplugs – for B exams or in your own time when studying in the computer labs or Library.

Don’t get upset by the noise – just put in the ear plugs.

WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) is a free and voluntary student-centred learning program. In PASS you will meet and work with other students to understand the content of your unit/s and develop study strategies to help improve your academic performance.

ature age students – try M studying together. It can be helpful to study with other students who are of a similar age and who bring different life experiences to the group discussions. ook for peer mentoring L opportunities. Other successful students can help you and then, when you get experience in your units you can help the new students.

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REFERENCING – STUDENTS SPEAK FROM EXPERIENCE

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rite up your references W as you go. That way you will not lose important reference details and you won’t have a horrible, big task to complete at the end of your assignment.

eferencing and citation R is essential in academic writing. Begin preparing references for your assignments early and use the University Library web guide to help you.

ake sure you know the M correct referencing style for each of your units.

Check that you are using correct style with each Unit Outline and remember not to mix them up.

I f your unit uses Australian Psychological Association referencing buy an APA Style Guide and keep it next to your computer. If your course uses this referencing, it is very demanding but your

marks will be better if you get your referencing right. ever forget or leave N referencing to the last minute. It is too easy to lose your reference sources or page numbers if you leave it til the last minute.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP Avoiding plagiarism: Plagiarism is the unauthorised use or close imitation of the language and thoughts of another author and the representation of those words or thoughts as one’s own original work. Plagiarism is a form of stealing.

Plagiarism is considered to be academic misconduct. If you are caught plagiarising, you will be subject to disciplinary ∫ BACK TO CONTENTS

action. Incorrect or insufficient referencing may be seen as plagiarism, so make sure you reference correctly.

Help and advice: The University Library staff are happy to help you to find the information and resources you need for your unit requirements. You can also find style guides for the most commonly used citation styles within the University on the

Library website – Library referencing guide .

Remember that not all units use the same referencing style.

Check the Unit Outline for every unit.

Turnitin: Turnitin is a software program that checks assignments for plagiarism.

Find out more about Turnitin .

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

MAINTAINING YOUR MOTIVATION AND FOCUS Studying at university is like a marathon. You will need endurance and resilience to help you to get through successfully.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

emember that education is R a very good tool that assists and helps in people’s lives.

(First language - Hindi) Study in Summer Session if you can, so you can catch up. Take your studies seriously. (First language Dari Persian) Have faith in your ability to work everything out. Say to yourself, ‘I can, so I will’. ake baby steps – don’t try T to do everything at once. Try not to be too critical of yourself and remember, slow and steady gets you there.

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tart with what you are S good at. Build from your strengths to give you confidence to improve your weaker areas. on’t sleep near your phone, D use an alarm clock. Phones take up too much time and are extremely distracting.

se the many good services U at Western Sydney University. You are a student and are entitled to use all services and resources the University offers. sk questions. Be A interested in everything that is going on around you.

lways stay aware and A curious. You might not know what you need until you find it. Look for information about programs that might help you – then don’t be shy, apply for it.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

FINDING HELP AND INFORMATION You are not alone. Most new students, and even experienced students, have times when they feel unsure, overwhelmed or lonely. There are lots of services and support at Western Sydney University to help you to make social and study connections and to get the assistance you need.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

MAKING SOCIAL AND STUDY CONNECTIONS

e brave – smile and say B hello. et to know others in your G classes – group work is always easier if you know people beforehand. You can learn a lot from other people. eet with experienced M students who speak the same language as you and ask them about the area/s you found difficult to understand.

Take the time to go to University events. Take in every opportunity you can.

WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP Make it a habit to look at the Students homepage to get important messages and check the upcoming student events.

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Establishing friendships takes many small steps.

Start with a friendly ‘hello’ and then maybe ask a question about how things work at uni.

Volunteer – get involved.

You have valuable skills, enthusiasm and experience to share. on’t judge by D appearances. Be friendly to everyone. If someone is not friendly in return they may just be having a bad day.

Remember that our differences enrich all our lives. se the official social media U sites, like Western Sydney U Facebook and @westernsydneyu on Twitter to keep up to date with what is happening around the uni.

ind a group with the same F interests as you. Western Sydney University has a good range of clubs and societies. You can find these on the student clubs website .

WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP Follow Western Sydney University on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest information, events and important dates. More information about other University social media channels is available on the join the conversation webpage .

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FINDING THE HELP AND INFORMATION YOU NEED

elp is always available H – start with the Library .

Lots of resources are available online via the library webpage and online journals. sk questions. Ask your A friends and tutors. Never feel too shy to ask questions. niversity is very different U from TAFE or private college. Use the resources and services to help you to make the transition. You are not alone, lots of us find it hard. o to the skills workshops G to get help with your academic skills and writing.

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pply for everything that A you think might help you.

Don’t be shy, if you are a student at Western Sydney University you have permission to use all the resources offered. alk to your Unit T Coordinator or Academic Course Advisor. Their contact information is available on the relevant unit or course page of the Handbook .

WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP Check out our free workshops, programs and online resources to help with your studies.

Register with CareerHub and start developing the skills you need to find a job while studying and after you graduate.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

CARING FOR YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING It is very important for you to take care of your health and wellbeing, as well as your studies.

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BALANCING YOUR STUDY AND LIFE

et enough sleep. Sleep is G important – it helps your brain function and improves your mood. ou can nap in the Library.

Y A short sleep can really help improve your concentration.

I f you’re feeling down, don’t be unhappy for too long. At Western Sydney University you can easily get good advice, help with your difficulties and someone to just listen to how you are feeling. Don’t wait with sad thoughts when you can get help now with the Counselling Service .

Make friends even if it is just someone you can say hello to or have lunch with.

ind the student kitchens F and microwave ovens on your campus – homemade meals can be cheaper and healthier. pply for work at the A University with Jobs on Campus . You can get some extra cash, valuable experience and it looks good on your résumé. arefully plan your finances C – get advice from the Student Welfare Service . If you have money problems get help and good advice quickly. Don’t be embarrassed – get help before the problems get too big.

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WESTERN SYDNEY U TIP If you want to talk to someone or get advice about personal issues or your general wellbeing, you can get in touch with the Counselling Service . They offer help and advice face to face, online (via eCounselling and Skype) and over the phone.

General information about mental health and wellbeing is also available on our mental health and wellbeing website .

ake time for family and M friends. Use Skype, text or write letters if you are away from home. You don’t have to write much just to keep in touch.

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

INFORMATION AND SERVICES

Student Central — your first point of contact Student Central Infoline: 1300 668 370 Email: studentcentral@ westernsydney.edu.au westernsydney.edu.au/ studentcentral Security and emergency information 24-hour Security Hotline: 1300 737 003 Emergencies (police, fire, ambulance): 000 westernsydney.edu.au/security

Academic Literacy workshops westernsydney.edu.au/ academicliteracy Accommodation westernsydney.edu.au/ accommodation Campus life, food and fitness services westernsydney.edu.au/services

Campus maps westernsydney.edu.au/campus

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Career advice, jobs and workshops westernsydney.edu.au/careers

Childcare centres westernsydney.edu.au/ childcare Counselling, mental health and wellbeing westernsydney.edu.au/ counselling

Maths Start workshops westernsydney.edu.au/mesh Mature age information westernsydney.edu.au/ matureage Mental Health and Wellbeing westernsydney.edu.au/mhwb

Mulifaith Chaplaincy westernsydney.edu.au/ chaplaincy

Disability and chronic illness services westernsydney.edu.au/ disabilityservice

PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions) westernsydney.edu.au/pass

Glossary of Western Sydney terms westernsydney.edu.au/ glossary

Printing, copying, scanning and binding services westernsydney.edu.au/ printservices

International exchange programs westernsydney.edu.au/ goglobal

Scholarships westernsydney.edu.au/ scholarships

IT and systems support westernsydney.edu.au/its MATES program westernsydney.edu.au/mates

Services for International Students westernsydney.edu.au/ internationalstudentsupport

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Starting at Western Sydney University website westernsydney.edu.au/starting

Western Sydney U Facebook page facebook.com/westernsydneyu

Student Legal Service westernsydney.edu.au/sls

University Library library.westernsydney.edu.au

Student Representation & Participation westernsydney.edu.au/ studentrepresentation

Western Sydney U Twitter feed twitter.com/westernsydneyu

Student Services Fair westernsydney.edu.au/ servicesfair Textbooks theuniversitystore.com.au Transcultural support for students with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds westernsydney.edu.au/ livinginaustralia

Western Wifi wireless network westernsydney.edu.au/ westernwifi Welfare, financial help and accommodation assistance westernsydney.edu.au/welfare

Workshops, programs and online resources westernsydney.edu.au/ workshops

Transport and getting to uni westernsydney.edu.au/ gettingtouni Online student support hub westernsydney.edu.au/ onlinesupport

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