The Global Connections program is open to all students in their 2nd term or above. We welcome domestic and international students from all disciplines and levels of study to join our team. As long as you have a keen interest in any of the three programs, we welcome you!  

Not at all! Some of our students end up being mentors/facilitators across all three programs, but that is not a requirement for joining the program. We have implemented the Global Connections program to make it easier for you to apply, interview, train and accumulate hours across the programs. If you only want to do one of the programs, you can still apply through this webpage.  

Cultural Mentor 

• Help new international students navigate their transition to university life at UNSW. 
• Provide social support to help students feel welcomed and integrated. 
• Offer practical advice on living in Sydney, including tips on accommodation, transportation, and local customs. 
• Facilitate connections between new students and various university resources and services. 
• Participate in and help organise social and cultural events to foster a sense of community. 
• Attend professional development sessions to enhance mentoring skills and develop global citizenship. 

Language Exchange Program 

• Organise regular language exchange sessions, including setting agendas and selecting topics. 
• Encourage participants to stay engaged and motivated in their language learning journey. 
• Provide guidance on language learning techniques and resources and facilitate conversations between participants. 
• Help to build a sense of community by encouraging participation in the Global Connections social and cultural events. 
• Attend professional development sessions to enhance facilitation skills and develop global citizenship. 

Let’s CommUNIcate 

• Plan and deliver English conversation workshops for international students with the help of your coordinator and co-facilitator.  
• Create a supportive and encouraging environment to help students build confidence in their English communication skills. 
• Facilitate connections among students to foster a sense of community and belonging. 
• Plan and prepare engaging activities and materials for each session. 
• Help to build a sense of community by encouraging participation in the Global Connections social and cultural events. 
• Attend professional development sessions to enhance facilitation skills and develop global citizenship. 

Global citizenship is a core capability of UNSW graduates, measured by students’ ability to be culturally adept and capable of respecting diversity and acting in a socially just and responsible way.  

Students that are global citizens are aware of and understand their impact in the wider world. They enquire into local and global connections and their views, values and assumptions.  

UNSW encourages students to strive to become global citizens for several reasons: 

• Enhanced Perspectives: Being a global citizen can help you as a student understand and appreciate diverse cultures, perspectives and global issues. 
• Career Opportunities: Employers value graduates who can navigate and contribute to international environments. Global citizenship skills, such as cross-cultural communication and adaptability, are highly sought after. 
• Personal Growth: Engaging with different cultures and global issues fosters personal development. It builds confidence, empathy, and a sense of responsibility towards making the world a better place. 

That is totally fine. Figure out which one is most suited for you as a participant and join us as a mentor when you’re ready!  

If you're a first year international student that would like that extra bit of support in studying at university, join the Cultural Mentor Program.

If you're an international student looking to join a safe, judgement-free space to practice your oral English, join Let's CommUNIcate.

If you're any student wanting to learn another language and you have a language you can teach (even if it's just English!), join the Language Exchange Program.

• Email: [email protected]