Student Exchange Pre-departure Guide Never Stand Still
Elly, University of Glasgow, UK
Congratulations You made it! Acceptance into the Student Exchange Program is something to be celebrated. You are about to embark on one of the most memorable and exciting experiences of your life! To help make your exchange experience stress free and even more enjoyable, we have put this booklet together with some tips and pointers. Please keep in touch with us, and direct any queries to our office while you are away. Good luck and best wishes for a fulfilling exchange! Bon Voyage
Global Education and Student Exchange Web: international.unsw.edu.au Email: intex@unsw.edu.au Phone: +61-2-9385 7276 Fax: +61-2-9385 5927
Pre departure Checklist
□□ Valid Visa and Passport □□ Travel/Health Insurance □□ UNSW Insurance Emergency Card and Details □□ Register with smartraveller.gov.au □□ Update emergency contact details on my.unsw.edu.au □□ Cash/Travellers Cheques/ATM card and pin □□ Copies of: course approvals, bank cards, verification (UNSW) and acceptance (host uni) letters, passport, and also leave a copy with a family member □□ Confirm flights □□ Submit a copy of your UNSW verification letter to Centrelink and nominate someone to act on your behalf (if applicable) □□ Faculty and Student Exchange contact details □□ Check you are enrolled in UNSW Exchange course code(s) on my.unsw.edu.au □□ HECS and Student Fees paid OR arrange for someone to pay fees for the session(s) you are away □□ Change of address AND/OR someone collecting your mail □□ zPass for access & re-enrolment
IF LOST
You can download this booklet at international.unsw.edu.au
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CONTENTS Congratulations You made it!
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Pre departure Checklist
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PREPARING TO GO Setting goals
6 6
Study plan
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THINGS TO ORGANISE NOW Travel arrangements
9 9
Health and insurance
11
Equity and disabilities
12
Money matters
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Accommodation
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Safekeeping of documentation
15
Taxation 15
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Packing
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Minimising jet lag
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WHILE ON EXCHANGE On arrival
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At the host university
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Full-time load
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Keeping up to date
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Culture shock
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Coping skills
20
Are you keeping in touch –too much?!
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Other things to think about – self reflection
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Extending exchange
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Keeping Safe Drugs and alcohol
22 22
Sex 22 Politics 23 Fire safety
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Critical incidents
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Register at the Consulate
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Emergency counselling for Australians overseas 24 BEFORE YOU RETURN Academic transcript
26 26
Transfer of credit
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Honours 26 Pay outstanding bills
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RETURNING TO AUSTRALIA 27 Re-enrolment 27 Program leave
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Re-entry into Australia
27
Scholarship students
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CONTACTS AND QUICK LINKS Insurance and Security
30 30
Travel and Safety
30
Global Education Office
30
Emergency Contact
31
Contact us
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PREPARING TO GO Exchange will be a memorable and exciting experience and it will challenge you in many ways. You will often explain to others what it is like in Australia and in doing so be forced to think and learn about your own perceptions of Australia. You will also learn about yourself. Leaving your home environment will give you a lot of freedom, which will encourage you to think about what is important to you. Research what’s happening in the area and get thinking about what it may be like. Be aware of any preconceived ideas you may have of your destination. It will be a lot easier to adapt to your new culture if you can take a step back from these preconceived ideas and take things as they come. Learn from your experience rather than interpreting everything before you have found out for yourself. You may be asked to represent UNSW at partner exchange fairs or expos or give a presentation on what it is like to study at UNSW. Please contact our office for promotional materials. Travel Tip! Check out the Lonely Planet books and wikitravel for guides for the city or country you are going to.
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Setting goals Prior to leaving, take some time to reflect on your goals and objectives for going on exchange and how these might align with your future career objectives. This will help prepare you and ensure you get the most out of your experience. Don’t forget to take the time to get involved in extra curricular activities and balance your studies with exploring your new culture. Your future employers will see the benefits of employing well rounded individuals who are capable of balancing academia, work experience and extra-curricular activities. This might be a great time to start your exchange journal or blog. Entries and photos will not only help you remember your experience but will assist in keeping track of the activities you undertook, challenges you faced and how you handled them. This information will provide useful information for future job opportunities and look great on your CV.
Questions to ask yourself: ●● Why am I choosing to study overseas? ●● What do I want to achieve while on exchange? ●● What activities can I get involved in to help settle in and that can be used on my CV? ●● What am I most excited about? ●● What am I most concerned about?
Study plan Before you leave make sure you have as many courses as possible preapproved by your course authority and your faculty office. Check that you have plenty of options for enrolment overseas as things often change by the time you enrol at the Host University and you may find courses are no longer available. Please ensure you receive approval before you enroll at your host university as credit will not be transferred unless the course has been approved. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to contact your course authority and obtain course approval.
Changing Courses If things do change and you find you need to take courses other than those already approved, you need to do the following:
STEP 1
STEP 2
STEP 3
STEP 4
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Contact your relevant UNSW Course and Faculty authority to seek approval for new courses
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Forward a copy of the emailed approval to toc@unsw.edu.au
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Keep a copy of the email for your records and bring it back with you when you return
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On return, check and update your transfer of credit and sumbit your returned student questionnaire
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Enrolment at UNSW while on exchange All students who go on exchange are enrolled in a relevant exchange code(s) according to the UNSW Faculty the courses will transfer back to. You are enrolled in a full time load (24 UOC) and charged the relevant tuition fees. It is your responsibility to check your enrolment on my.unsw.edu.au and to let us know if you are not enrolled in the correct exchange code(s). It is also your responsibility to remove all blocks on your record and pay any outstanding fines before you leave otherwise we will not be able to enroll you. Students who are not enrolled in the exchange code cannot transfer back their study credit.
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After you have been enrolled in the relevant exchange code(s) please DO NOT alter your enrolment. On arrival at your host university please complete and return your Notice of Enrolment Form to our Office confirming your contact details and final enrolment. Tip! Don’t forget to arrange for someone to pay your tuition fees while you are away or do this online at my.unsw.edu.au
Stephanie, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
THINGS TO ORGANISE NOW Travel arrangements You are responsible for making your own travel arrangements. We recommend you arrive at your destination with sufficient time to settle in and, if you are not living in on-campus accommodation, to find permanent housing. Either way, you should arrive in time for orientation and at least one week before the start of class. Never leave Australia without receiving your correct visa for travel to your host university and other relevant countries. Tip! Know the dates and location of the orientation and enrolment sessions at your host university. Ensure that your travel plans allow you to arrive in time for any compulsory events.
Airline tickets Research departure times, dates and flight numbers. Once booked ensure that the details for ALL flights are correct. Always remember to confirm your flight bookings at least 72 hours prior to departure. Once you have finalised your travel itinerary, leave copies of the inside front cover of passports, visas, e-tickets and travel itineraries with a family member or trusted friend and include contact details for each place you will be staying.
We also recommend you scan a copy to your email.
Passport Probably your single most important travel document. Ensure it is current and will remain valid for the entire duration of your time abroad including your intended travel after your studies. Generally, it is necessary for your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended return to Australia.
Visa You must ensure that you obtain the necessary visa or entry permit for ALL the countries you will be going to or through BEFORE you leave Australia. Once you receive your acceptance letter from the host university, you can apply for a visa. You should do this on receipt of your acceptance letter as visa turnaround times vary and may take several weeks to process. Always confirm the time it may take with the consulate or embassy well in advance of your travel dates. Also find out what documents they require i.e. passport photos or a police clearance as they can take time to organise. Fees for visas also vary so check the relevant consulate web site.
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Student visas for USA Many students travel to the US, so it should be noted that conditions for the student visa are extremely strict. Check the US Consulate, Sydney website for information on application requirements, procedures, processing times and interviews. When attending an interview be prepared to show incentive to return to Australia or your home country at the end of your exchange. Students applying for a student visa to the US are required to pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee before applying for their visa. Students travelling to the US are not able to arrive on the Visa Waiver Scheme (Tourist Visa) and transfer to a J-1 Visa in the US or a contiguous country. J-1 Visas only permit students to arrive less than one month prior to the commencement of studies. Students undertaking an exchange in Canada who wish to travel through America need to check the US visa requirements carefully. Generally you need to apply for a long- term tourist visa to the US allowing you to exit via the US at the end of your exchange. This involves lodging a visa application at the US Consulate and attending an interview.
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International Students on exchange – Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) International students can claim credit on their OSHC for their time on exchange. You should contact your OSHC provider within 30 days of returning to Australia and provide evidence of your exchange. This can include copies of your passport and boarding passes.
Travel and Safety advice While overseas it is important to keep up to date with the travel status of places you plan to visit. Always check the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs website for travel warnings and updates on events overseas dfat.gov.au We recommend you register with: 1. smartraveller.gov.au 2. your nearest government representative 3. your host university 4. your contact details on my.unsw.edu.au We will contact you if there is a significant change to the safety situation in your host country or region. If UNSW determines that the threat to your safety is significant we reserve the right to compulsorily evacuate you from that location. Arrangements will be made on a case-by-case basis regarding completion of your study program and relevant evacuation costs for any truncated exchange sessions.
Health and insurance UNSW insurance You need to ensure that you have adequate insurance for the duration of your exchange session(s). UNSW’s travel policy will cover students while on a formal student exchange. This insurance is free of charge and no registration is required. A separate cover letter can be requested from the UNSW Risk Management Unit. If the UNSW Insurance Policy covers you while on exchange, you are obliged to read and understand all details of the policy. All insurance details must be confirmed before your departure. UNSW cannot change coverage while you are overseas. fin.unsw.edu.au/RiskManagement/ Insurance.html
UNSW Risk Management Unit
T: +61-2-9385 1980 E: azita.karpour@unsw.edu.au (include your full name, UNSW student number, departure and return dates) Download the Emergency Contact Card –emergency matters only fin.unsw.edu.au/files/Travel/ACE_ Assistance_Card.pdf
While UNSW aims to assist you with cost effective insurance, the coverage may not meet the requirements of all students going on an exchange. In such cases, we strongly recommend you arrange your own travel coverage through a private insurance provider. Never leave Australia without adequate coverage!
Partner university insurance requirements Health care while overseas can be very expensive if you are not insured, particularly in the US and Canada where you may even be denied treatment if you do not have adequate cover. Universities overseas have different requirements for health insurance and many partner universities have their own insurance policies that are compulsory. UNSW cover may not be sufficient to have these plans waived and you will be required to pay the additional fee at the partner university even if you are covered by UNSW insurance. You should research your choices in advance to find out if this is the case for you. It is your responsibility to check the partner’s requirements and apply for any waivers if applicable. The decision on such insurance requirements rests with the host university, and you will need to negotiate this directly with your host university. If you are eligible to apply for a waiver, please fill out the relevant forms as soon as you arrive at the partner university. Do NOT leave it until the end of your exchange as it will be too late.
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If you take out your own health insurance policy remember to take proof of your insurance with you and details of the policy otherwise you may be required to purchase additional cover at the host university.
Health check-up and medications
If you suffer from a medical condition that you feel may affect you while you are abroad, you should also consult with your doctor about the implications going on exchange may have on your condition.
We recommend you have a complete medical and dental check-up before you leave Australia.
Equity and disabilities
Check you have the necessary vaccinations and take a full record of your immunisation with you. Many universities request to see this form and will make you pay for additional immunisation if you cannot prove you are immunised.
If you use any of the Equity and Disabilities services at UNSW you may want to check what services are offered at your host university. Find out what services and provisions are available as services may vary and you may not receive the same adjustments as those provided at UNSW.
If you take regular medication, consider taking supplies with you as you may find the medication you use is unavailable where you are going. If you take a supply of your medication, ensure you take the doctor’s prescription with you, so you don’t arouse the suspicion of customs officials. You should also have your doctor provide you with a report detailing your medical needs so that prescriptions can be made for you overseas, if the need arises. Remember that some drugs which are readily available in Australia may be considered illegal in other countries. For example, Panadeine contains codeine, which is illegal in the US. Check all medication that you intend to bring with you to ensure that you are not breaking the law by bringing them into the country to which you are headed.
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Never remove medication from its original packaging as this may cause concern for customs officials.
Contact the UNSW Disability Officers prior to your departure to discuss your situation. You may be required to take original or certified documentation verifying your disability. You should also take recent medical documentation from your consulting specialist, outlining the nature of your condition and the impacts it may have on your academic studies. If you are taking any medication or aids with you, please check with your doctor and the Immigration Department of your host country prior to departure as health regulations and availability of medications vary from country to country.
Money matters
Youth Allowance
It is always wise to obtain a small amount of local currency prior to departure or on arrival at the airport of your destination. Ensure you have sufficient funds in the local currency where you are headed, to last you at least for the first few weeks after you arrive. Although ATMs now work most places internationally, never assume that an ATM will automatically work when you arrive!
If you receive Youth Allowance, you can usually arrange to have your payments continue while on exchange. You may find you become eligible while going on exchange, but you will need to investigate this with Centrelink before you leave Australia. Rent assistance is not normally paid while on exchange.
Ask your bank about bank drafts, international credit cards, affiliations with overseas banks, overseas withdrawals and telegraphic transfers to take larger sums of money overseas.
ATM Cards Many ATM and credit cards can be used overseas. Each use incurs a fee, however this is a relatively simple way of accessing funds from Australia. Check with your bank for details and costs and ask them about the PIN requirements in different countries. You do not want to arrive and be stranded with no access to cash! It is also a good idea to let your bank know you will be using your bank card overseas.
To ensure you continue to receive allowances, take your UNSW Exchange Verification letter and a copy of your acceptance letter from the host university to Centrelink well in advance of your departure to inform them of your overseas study plans. It is not possible to negotiate or inform Centrelink of changes to your Youth Allowance when you are already overseas. We recommend you officially nominate someone (e.g. a parent) to liaise with Centrelink on your behalf. Be sure to fill out any necessary paperwork before you leave Australia. If you don’t inform Centrelink of your change of circumstances, you will have your allowances terminated.
OS – HELP You may be eligible to apply for an OS-HELP loan to help with your expenses such as travel and accommodation. For details see https://my.unsw.edu.au/student/ fees/OSHelp.html
Seoul, Korea
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Boran, Harbin Institute of Technology, China
Accommodation You should receive information from your host university regarding accommodation. If you have applied for on-campus housing but have not heard of the outcome of your application before departure, please contact the Exchange Office at your host university. Most universities have a Housing Office that will be able to help you find accommodation. Make sure you obtain this information before you leave. Be aware that you may find the accommodation and living options very different to what you are used to in Australia. Building codes and safety regulations vary around the world, so make sure you do your research before you decide on your accommodation.
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Things to consider: ●● Ensure smoke alarms are installed. Consider taking your own smoke alarm with an emergency light and batteries with you. They are cheap and small enough to carry with you ●● Fire truck ladders often can’t reach beyond the 7th floor so avoid living above this point ●● Check the building is easily accessible by emergency vehicles ●● Check there is a fire escape. Make sure windows are not obstructed or blocked ●● For more tips and guidelines see firesafetyfoundation.org On arrival at any new location make sure you check the emergency exits and building standards for where you are staying or visiting. Become familiar with exits when entering new buildings. Not all universities are subject to the same rigorous Occupational Health and Safety legislation as Australian Universities.
Safekeeping of documentation Before departing, make two photocopies of all important documentation including passport, birth certificate, visa, travel insurance, travellers’ cheques, medical reports, university documents including course approval forms and transcripts/ results. You should pack one copy in your luggage (not the originals, carry them with you) and leave the other copy here in Australia with a reliable person. We suggest you scan these documents and save them on a memory stick or in your email account for easy access if you misplace your documents.
Taxation Don’t forget your responsibilities regarding tax. If you are going to be away through the end of a financial year, ensure that you have completed the necessary tax returns required of you. Contact the Australian Taxation Office for details.
Packing Returned students often say they took far too many clothes. You have a weight limit and in many cases, you will need to either change flights, catch a bus, or do both to get to your destination – having too much to carry will only become a burden. Check the climate of your host country and pack only items which are really necessary.
Essential items to pack in your hand-luggage ●● passport (and visa) ●● airline ticket and travel itinerary ●● details of arrival procedure ●● list of contact numbers ●● travellers cheques/money ●● valuables ●● medication, optical supplies ●● prescription if needed Things to consider ●● Electrical items may not work overseas. Don’t bother to take them with you. If you do need to take electronic equipment, consider taking an Australian powerboard with one adaptor plug, rather than one adaptor for each device ●● Buy your heavy winter clothing overseas. It is often less expensive and more readily available. It is also more suited to specific weather conditions of the place Packing Tip! Pack what you plan to take 24 hours before you go, and then take out HALF OF IT! If you think you really need that shirt, ask your parents to send it after you arrive and see what you really need!
Other things to organise before you leave ●● International student identity card (ISIC) to assist in identifying yourself as a student. Contact Student Travel Australia (STA) for details ●● International driver’s licence if you intend to drive while abroad. Contact the RTA for details
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Minimising jet lag Here are some simple hints on minimising jet lag: 1. Be relaxed Ensure that you are organised and get to the airport in plenty of time. Check in and security procedures now take significantly longer. 2. Alcohol Drink plenty of water or light juices on the plane. If you want to drink alcohol, limit yourself to one or two glasses during the flight. 3. Eating Eat in moderation. Meals and snacks on a long flight are served frequently. Sometimes it is tempting to eat just to help pass the time. Remember that your digestive system is less efficient at 35,000 feet.
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James, University of Jean Moulin, France
4. Exercise While in the air on a long flight, walk and stretch. Keep your blood circulating. Read the information on DVT and stretch in your seat; get up and walk around the plane from time to time. 5. Adjust your clock Immediately after takeoff, set your watch to the time zone that you will end up in. Not only does the travel time appear to go faster, but it is easier for you to adapt when you arrive. Try to sleep on the plane. 6. On arrival slot into the time zone Try and stay active and awake until about 7 or 8 p.m. on your first night. Then ensure that you get a good night’s rest. Don’t try to go out partying on your first night!
WHILE ON EXCHANGE On arrival Contact your host university’s Exchange Office as soon as you arrive. The office details should be included in your acceptance papers so take their contact details with you. You may need to spend a night in a city where you change flights. If this applies to you, ask your travel agent for suggestions on where to stay. Be sure you have sufficient funds in the local currency to cover any costs. If your partner university does not offer on-campus accommodation or you have decided to find your own off-campus accommodation, we recommend you arrive 1-2 weeks before orientation to find suitable accommodation. Check the rental procedures and your rights as a tenant. If you have questions ask the Exchange or Housing Office at your partner university.
Many universities also have an International Student Centre or equivalent, which looks after the welfare of international students. Contact either or both of these offices whenever you have a query about your enrolment, study program, problems with settling in, immigration etc. They will be able to help. Once you have enrolled in your courses please: ●● Return your completed UNSW Notice of Enrolment form to intex@unsw.edu.au ●● Update your contact details on my.unsw.edu.au If you have questions regarding your courses at the host university, speak with your lecturers there. If there are any issues ensure that you also contact us and we will do our best to assist you.
At the host university Soon after you arrive, you should register or enroll at your host university. Your first point of contact should be their Exchange Office. Staff there will be able to provide you with details about the compulsory orientation, enrolment, and other details about your stay.
University of Mannheim, Germany
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Full-time load You are expected to enroll in a full time load at the partner university. Make sure you enroll in sufficient courses to transfer back 24UOC to your UNSW degree. If you are not sure how many courses you should be taking contact our office. Country America and Canada
Approximate full time load per semester 4-5 courses
United Kingdom
60 credits
Europe
30 ECTS (could be as many as 6-8 courses)
Asia
4 courses except for Japan where you may take up to 7 courses
Keeping up to date We will send you emails regarding your exchange. Please ensure that your UNSW email is operational as this is our main method of communication with you.
Culture shock As a natural part of settling into your new environment you will, to some degree, experience culture shock. The key to successfully overcoming culture shock is being prepared.
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You will find that the people, attitudes, food and the way of life in your new environment are different to what you are accustomed to in Australia. In some countries, such as the UK, USA and
Canada, the differences may not be apparent at first. Given time, though, some things will emerge and you will find yourself noticing subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) differences between your host country and your home country. Some of these differences may cause you concern and even anxiety. This process of cultural adjustment is often referred to as culture shock. Remember that culture shock is part of the re-adjustment process or cycle, which everyone goes through when moving from one environment to another. Obviously, some will be affected by it more than others, but everybody experiences culture shock to some degree. In general terms a cyclical, four-phase process can be identified in the process of adjustments: This is sometimes called the U-Curve of Adjustment.
Euphoria The tourist phase, you are excited and everything is perceived with the same sense of excitement, things do not appear to be too dissimilar from home, or your attention is drawn towards similar things between the old and the new environment.
Irritation and hostility The initial excitement and curiosity passes to be filled with irritation, frustration, anger or even depression. You become aware of important differences and make comparisons
between what you are currently experiencing and what you are used to in Australia. Minor things cause major upsets, you begin to lose your sense of belonging, and people seem not to understand, or react in a way different to back home. Homesickness, boredom and loneliness emerge, and you may even question if you have made the right decision in going abroad. This is the most difficult phase and will affect different people in different ways.
Gradual adjustment Things begin to make sense; you become oriented to the new environment, and are able to pick up subtle cultural
Kelli, University of Birmingham, UK
cues and clues which help to put things in perspective; the culture begins to feel more familiar and you find you are at ease with the differences. The sense of isolation in the previous phase fades and self-confidence is restored.
Adaptation You become confident and enjoy interaction with the new culture; you meet the challenge of differences with renewed enthusiasm. The transition is largely complete. Be aware that this u-curve or cycle may occur again if you are on a 12 month exchange. The second curve though will likely be less severe than the first adjustment.
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Coping skills An effective way of limiting culture shock is to get involved. Try new things and check them out – in other words “have a go”. An Aussie attitude, smile and “G’day” can go a long way! ●● Make friends with other international students from other nationalities/ countries who share similar issues and interests ●● Explore local places and meet local people. Use the fact that you are different from them to your advantage, by sharing your thoughts and experience with them ●● Take time to participate in the activities on or around campus ●● Remember that your exchange is not meant to be limited to your academic studies. There is always plenty happening that you can, and should get involved in ●● Keep a journal or blog ●● Avoid spending all your time with other Australians If you continue to experience physical or emotional stress that is difficult to manage, seek advice from a doctor or staff from your host university exchange office.
Are you keeping in touch – too much?!
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Communications such as phone, text, email and online chat can make it easy to stay up to date with what all of your friends and relatives are up to. While this can be a positive experience it can also
make it harder in the medium term to make the adjustment of being in another country and culture. As one student noted: ‘I realized I was online chatting to friends for hours in Sydney about nothing, while outside there was an amazing world happening that I was missing out on. I decided to stop talking to my friends in Sydney, get off the computer, and embrace the amazing experience of being in Canada!’ Avoid spending all of your time hanging onto things in Australia and missing out on things that you could be doing in your new location! One way to make culture shock and homesickness worse is to stay mentally in your home country, and not engage with the new country. So keep in touch, but ensure that you cut the ties to home for the six months you are away, you will be all the richer and stronger personally for it, and enjoy your time there much more!
Other things to think about – self reflection Being abroad is a good time to think about and take a critical look at your own culture and values. Use the differences between your own culture and that of your host country to examine the value that you place on various things in Australia.
As a part of your overseas experience, you will be asked to interpret your “Australian” actions and represent the “Australian” way of life. You may find your diplomatic skills being tested when you will need to explain or defend policies and views held by ‘all Australians’. This aspect of your exchange experience will serve to further challenge you while you are abroad, and hopefully, enhance the sense of satisfaction and accomplishment of having lived in another culture. Please also remember that you are part of an exchange. As such, you are expected to act as an ambassador for UNSW. What you say and do will reflect on how people at your host institution/ country react to Australians and others from UNSW who will visit in the future.
Sarah, American University, USA
Our Exchange Program relies on the goodwill of our partner universities and the behavior of students. We are in constant contact with our partner universities and we will hear about your actions, both positive and negative. If your actions constitute serious misbehaviour your exchange will be terminated and you will be forced to return home.
Extending exchange One-session exchange students who wish to extend their exchange for a further session should contact our Office at least 6 weeks before the end of their first session. Any extension will only be granted with approval from our Office, your UNSW Faculty and the Exchange Office at your host university.
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Keeping Safe Please remember to exercise the same caution you would if you were in Sydney especially in regards to your personal belongings and safety. Report any incidents to the Exchange Office at your host university and any local authorities. Contact us as soon as you can to let us know too. Violent and petty crimes occur in many countries. You should put measures in place to protect your personal safety and familiarise yourself with the types of crime that occur and locations where you may be particularly at risk. If in doubt, seek local advice. ●● Keep valuables out of sight, avoid displays of wealth and be vigilant to your personal safety in public places ●● Take care when travelling after dark, especially if you are alone. Take a taxi and avoid areas known for criminal activity or that are isolated ●● Dress standards vary. Consider and observe dress codes when traveling overseas. It is always better to observe local customs rather than cause unnecessary offence ●● Always work within the legal framework of the host country even if these laws are not observed in Australia ●● Remove yourself from any situations as quickly as possible. Give up any valuables, they can be replaced!
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●● Find out the local emergency phone number for the country you are in (e.g. 000) Note that the international emergency number is 112 and this works in most countries. ●● international.unsw.edu.au/outboundopportunities/health-and-safety
Drugs and alcohol In comparison with most other countries, Australian drug laws and their enforcement are relatively relaxed. While overseas your status as an exchange student does not exempt you from prosecution if caught in possession of any illegal substance. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. In the US, consumption of alcohol is illegal in all states if you are under 21. Although this law may seem extreme, universities and police take it seriously. Be careful.
Sex Sexually transmittable diseases are a reality all over the world and not all countries are as open about sex and sexually transmittable diseases as Australia. Insist on safe sex, ALWAYS use a condom.
Condoms have use-by dates – always check them. They can perish. Taking some from home may give you peace of mind. You owe it to yourself and your partner to protect yourself.
Politics Australia is a very politically stable environment in comparison to many exchange destinations. Be aware that some political protest can be dangerous. If there is serious unrest in your area, contact your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate and our Office. Be sensitive to the local situation. It is possible you may encounter anti-western feelings, racism or simply someone being antagonistic. It’s usually best to bite your tongue and stay out of trouble. Try to be as sensitive as possible to the reasons why other people feel and act as they do.
Seoul, Korea
If any form of constant harassment becomes an issue for you, seek out the Exchange Office or counselling service at your host university. The UNSW Counselling Service is also available to you, whether you are in Australia or overseas.
Fire safety It is easy to forget about fire safety in all the excitement of exchange but a little planning and preparation saves lives. ●● Check that smoke alarms are installed and work. Test the batteries every month ●● Make a note of the emergency number for the country you are in. Download country fact sheets on fire safety firesafetyfoundation.org/education/ countrydirectory.html
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●● Purchase your own portable fire escape ladder if your residence does not one ●● Learn at least two exits for every room and know the location of alarms and extinguishers ●● Be aware of what to do in the event of a fire ●● Have a plan for fire prevention ●● Read more about fire safety and planning firesafetyfoundation.org/ education/make-a-plan.html
Critical incidents In the event of a critical incident the following offices should be informed as soon as possible:
We recommend you register at the nearest Australian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission. This is particularly useful if there is an unexpected political event or natural disaster during your stay in the country and they need to contact or advise of evacuation. For a list of Australian Consulates overseas visit dfat.gov.au
Emergency counselling for Australians overseas The Department of Foreign Affairs provides emergency services for Australians who are overseas and these services include access to Lifeline telephone counselling options.
Office
Details
International Office at your host university
Find out and keep their contact details handy
UNSW insurance provider (ACE)
+61 2 8907 5995
UNSW Global Education Office
intex@unsw.edu.au +61 2 9385 7276
●● call +61 2 6261 3305
After hours – UNSW Security
+61 2 9385 6666
●● wait on the line or follow the selection options for different services
This service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for those who require counselling services in emergency situations. To access this service:
Should an unforeseen disaster occur during your visit such as an earthquake, typhoon, tornado, tsunami, it is essential that you also make contact with the local Australian diplomatic mission. If UNSW determines that you must leave a location, we will contact you to advise of evacuation.
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Register at the Consulate
●● Calls to local Australian High Commissions, Embassies or Consulates in some countries can also be put through to Lifeline in Australia for the cost of a local call ●● If the call is made after hours overseas, your call is automatically transferred to Australia ●● For further information visit smartraveller.gov.au
Brendan, University College, Dublin, Ireland
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BEFORE YOU RETURN Academic transcript Every university has a different system for issuing academic transcripts. Some universities automatically send your transcripts to our office. Others require you to order your transcript, fill out forms or nominate where you would like your transcripts to be sent in order to receive it. Always check with your host university how their transcript system works. Without a transcript, your credits will not be transferred. In the case where you are personally issued your transcript please bring it to our office so that we can transfer your credits. After your credits are transferred to your UNSW transcript we can give you any copies that we have of your original transcript.
Transfer of credit In addition to your transcript and course approvals, you also need to complete your Returned Student Questionnaire before your credits will be transferred. Information will be emailed to you towards the end of your exchange and you can download the questionnaire from our website. If you go on exchange in your last UNSW session and you will return to graduate, please be aware that the transfer of credit process takes time; your graduation may be delayed. To speed up the process, have your overseas transcript sent to our office as soon as possible. You may wish to bring it in yourself rather than wait for the partner institution to send it.
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You should also contact your Faculty to check you are eligible to graduate and any graduation deadlines. We recommend you complete your transfer of credits before the end of the semester you return to UNSW. Please be advised that credits from failed courses cannot be transferred.
Honours If you are planning an Honors program at UNSW, it is essential you speak to your overseas lecturers, particularly those who conducted the classes that are part of your major. Speak to them about obtaining information on your rank in the class at the end of term/semester/ quarter, methods of assessment, profile of marks and ask them if they would be willing to write you a reference detailing your performance and standing in their course relative to other students in the class.
Pay outstanding bills Like UNSW, most overseas universities withhold examination results if you have outstanding debts. Remember to clear all your debts BEFORE you leave. It is much easier to arrange this while you are still at the partner university rather than when you return to Australia. Double-check your library, telephone and rent accounts.
RETURNING TO AUSTRALIA Make contact with our office as soon as you are able to after your return. We value the opportunity to discuss your experience with you.
Re-enrolment Check your online enrolment at UNSW in plenty of time and ensure you know what the deadlines are for changing enrolments for the upcoming sessions. Generally you need to complete your enrolment during the normal re-enrolment period and in the normal online way. Make sure you keep in touch with your school and follow their enrolment procedures, and know details about when tutorials are open etc. If the course that you wish to enrol in has pre-requisites that you completed overseas and your credit has not yet been transferred, take your transcript from the partner university to your faculty and negotiate your enrolment with them. If you are unsure about the status of your enrolment, log onto my.unsw.edu.au. Contact Student Central or your faculty if you have any problems logging on and accessing information.
Program leave If you plan to take a semester off after your exchange before returning to study at UNSW, you must apply for ‘Program Leave’. Contact your UNSW Faculty for details. Do not just let your enrolment lapse, as it can be difficult to re-enrol and your access to your UNSW student account will be suspended.
Re-entry into Australia When organising your return trip to Australia, allow yourself some time to settle in before re-commencing your studies. In other words, plan to arrive some time before the next session of studies for UNSW begins. You will find that, just as it took time to adjust to your new surroundings when you went abroad, it will take time for you to re-adjust to Australia when you return home. It is not unusual to find that life in Australia is different to when you left. Or perhaps you have changed and life here is relatively the same. In adjusting to the new culture abroad, you WILL have changed.
Enrolment Tip! Take your UNSW zPass with you so you can log on to the UNSW Student Gateway for enrolment my.unsw.edu.au
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Being aware of the fact that things may have changed will help ease the reverse culture shock. Just as you had expectations that things would be different in your new culture when you went abroad, you should expect to face certain changes when you return. You should not think that, because it is your home, things will remain exactly as when you left it. You will also find you lose your ‘foreign’ or ‘special’ status. Many people regret coming back and want to escape by going overseas again. If you need any help at this stage, we are happy to assist you in any way we can. ●● Take time to re-orient yourself to life in Australia and become accustomed to the new developments around you ●● Allow yourself time to fit back into your old patterns. Returning home usually means that things are familiar and predictable. You may find that the excitement and sense of adventure you experienced overseas has gone and life seems boring ●● Get involved and join cultural groups in your area or at UNSW. Ask us about the Aussie Mate Program. Each session we have more than 300 exchange students coming to UNSW from all over the world ●● Don’t expect your friends and family to want to know all about the experiences that meant so much to you. You have experienced things they can’t understand ●● Meet new people who share your perspectives on the world. Other returned exchange students will know exactly what you are going through
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●● Volunteer – we run the Aussie Mate program, organise social events, information seminars and an annual Expo that you can get involved in
Returned debriefing session We strongly recommended you attend the exchange debriefing session on your return to UNSW. This is an opportunity for you to tell us about your experiences and is also a chance to talk and to compare experiences with other returning students. The session will cover some general administration as well as some information to help you settle back to life in Sydney. Further information is sent out closer to the time.
Chief Aussie Mate Volunteer Program We run a volunteer program each semester for students to help with the organisation of the Aussie Mate program and promotional activities of our Office. This is a great way to network, meet other students and develop skills that look impressive on your resume. Volunteers are asked to contribute approximately 20 hours over a semester and are given a book voucher, certificate of participation and reference letter. The program is also listed on the Australian Higher Education Graduation Statement (AHEGS). To get involved send your resume and a 200 word statement explaining why you would like to apply to advisor4asia@unsw.edu.au
Scholarship students Students who received a Student Exchange Scholarship are expected to assist with the Aussie Mate Program and promotion of exchange at the Exchange Expos and information sessions. You will be reminded of this obligation on your return.
Sydney, Australia
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CONTACTS AND QUICK LINKS Insurance and Security
Global Education Office
UNSW Risk Management T: + 61 2 9385 1980 E: azita.karpour@unsw.edu.au fin.unsw.edu.au/RiskManagement/ Insurance.html
Student Exchange Office T:+ 61 2 9385 7276 E: intex@unsw.edu.au international.unsw.edu.au/outboundopportunities/student-exchange/
UNSW ACE Insurance T: +61 2 8907 5995 aceassistance.com
Advisor for Americas T: + 61 2 9385 5337 E: advisor4americas@unsw.edu.au
UNSW Security T: +61 2 9385 6666 facilities.unsw.edu.au
Advisor for Europe and South Africa T: +61 2 9385 5339 E: advisor4europe@unsw.edu.au
Travel and Safety
Advisor for Asia, Israel, Oceania, Spain and Latin America T: +61 2 9385 6449 E: advisor4asia@unsw.edu.au
DFAT Travel Advisories smartraveller.gov.au DFAT Lifeline T: +61 2 6261 3305 smartraveller.gov.au Fire Safety firesafetyfoundation.org Health and Safety international.unsw.edu.au/outboundopportunities/health-and-safety UNSW Counseling Service counselling.unsw.edu.au
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Transfer of Credit T: +61 2 9385 6449 E: toc@unsw.edu.au OS Help T: +61 2 9385 7276 E: intex@unsw.edu.au https://my.unsw.edu.au/student/fees/ OSHelp.html Facebook Facebook.com/UnswGESE Twitter twitter.com/UNSWGESE
Emergency Contact UNSW Security T: +61 2 9385 6666 facilities.unsw.edu.au *This number is available 24 hours a day. Please state you are a UNSW student overseas and need assistance
Contact us Global Education and Student Exchange Office East Wing, Red Centre Building University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, 2052 Australia T:+ 61 2 9385 7276 E: intex@unsw.edu.au international.unsw.edu.au/outboundopportunities/student-exchange/ preparing-go-abroad/
The information contained in this publication was correct as at 6 May 2013 but is subject to amendment without notice. CRICOS Code 00098G Artwork and Printing by P3 Design Studio, R53443.