Ms Alison White, IEAA-SF1,2, Dr Gretchen Dobson1
1Tetra Tech International Development, Adelaide, Australia, 2International Education Association of Australia, Melbourne, Australia
Many factors contribute to positive student experiences; some help them survive, while others help them thrive. Tetra Tech International Development manages nine Australia Awards programs in ten countries across the Indo-Pacific. While engagement with scholars primarily occurs in the lead up to traveling to Australia, or upon returning home after their studies, there are touchpoints at all stages of the scholar life-cycle, including while on-award.
Scholars often report feelings of stress, isolation, and pressure to perform academically. To support our scholars, Tetra Tech has increased access to enrichment activities on-award – with a focus on inclusion, access and quality. Activities span professional networking and communication, inclusive leadership, and mental health and wellness. This session will show how an ongoing community of Peer-to-Peer Support has been created across Australia, supported by our corporate and program teams, particularly through the following initiatives:
- Scholar to Scholar – offering targeted strategies and practical skills to maintain personal wellness and work-life balance, these online sessions are facilitated by both scholars and experienced professionals working in the mental health/wellness fields
- Scholar Yoga – delivered by a qualified yoga practitioner, these online sessions provide modifications to enable access and full participation for all, regardless of their mobility or flexibility, and provide opportunities for scholars to reduce stress, and focus on their wellbeing in a supportive and safe environment
In addition to their practical benefits, these programs provide opportunities for scholars to connect with each other, crossing state boundaries, country origins, host universities and academic disciplines.
Biography:
Alison White, Senior Fellow of the International Education Association of Australia, has 25 years of experience in international education and scholarships. She is Associate Director International Education at Tetra Tech International Development, involved with several scholarship and fellowship programs, and Convenor of the IEAA Scholarships and Fellowships Network.
Dr Gretchen Dobson is a global engagement strategist, author and academic with 30 years’ experience working across six continents. She is Associate Director, Scholarships at Tetra Tech International Development focusing on advancing personal and professional development initiatives for learners and alumni across the Indo-Pacific and Southeast Asia