AsiaNet 43965

MELBOURNE, Australia, Mar. 28, 2011 (ANTARA/PRNewswire-Asia-AsiaNet) --

International students were introduced to contemporary Australian culture at Swinburne University of Technology's annual 'Aussie Insights' workshop.

Organised by Swinburne's Careers and Employment Unit, the workshop was part of a wider project to assist international students gain part-time employment in Australia.

Swinburne's International Career Consultant, Olivia Doyle said that understanding Aussie pastimes forms an important part of the job seeking process and Australian workplace culture.

"We want to help our students develop the confidence to make small talk, build relationships and rapport as the development of interpersonal communication is crucial in the workplace and when seeking employment," she said.

As part of the workshop, Hawthorn Football Club Cultural Director, Michael Nguyen introduced the students to the rules of AFL and taught them how to handball and kick a football.

"Barracking for a football team helps international students to integrate in all sorts of situations including in the workplace," Doyle said.

PBS radio presenter, Jenny O'Keefe also gave a roundup of Melbourne's music scene.

"It is important for international students to know what music is available to them and where to source it," she said.

"Music is an integral part of Melbourne's lifestyle and culture and it's great for students to know that Melbourne has a very accessible music scene that caters to all tastes."

To view the full media release and photos visit Swinburne's Media Centre: http://www.swinburne.edu.au/chancellery/mediacentre/media-centre/news/2011/03/showcasing-australian-culture


SOURCE: Swinburne University of Technology

Reporter: Adityawarman
Editor: PR Wire
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