Now that I have shown you what the major challenges can be for international students, let me show you how I can help you slash through these issues! There is no other business (that I know of in Perth) that offers such one-on-one service that I am about to show you, and which embraces mentorship, coaching and assistance for international Asian students in one program.

So what can Dr Simon do for you?

I can help you adapt to new learning methods in university!

• I will meet with you and discuss the concept of independent/self-directed learning.
• I will guide the students on how to handle readings and undertake research with confidence and ease.
• I will assist you in developing tools on how to learn independently or with minimal assistance.
• I will encourage you to step up and be more active and vocal in tutorial discussion by giving you certain communication tools that are easy to apply.
• I will be a mentor for you as you delve into your first semester of assignments. I may not be your private tutor, but I will utilise my skills and knowledge through my past experiences as a university lecture and tutor in guiding your first written assignment.

I will introduce you to:

• Academic language and writing
• Assignment structures and presentation formats
• Citation, bibliography/referencing methods
• Ideas and argument development (for Humanities and arts students specifically)

I can help you sort out your accommodation issues!

• I will assist you with finding off campus accommodation, if needed.
• I will ensure that all legal tenancy agreements/contracts are verified and that you are securing a stable lease.
• I will show you where the nearest shopping area is close to your accommodation, and how to get around the immediate vicinity.
• If needed, I will assist you with the purchase of basic furniture and other essentials that you need to set your home/room up.
• If needed, I will guide you through the application processes for your gas and electricity connection, and recommend you the various telephone/broadband services Perth has to offer that best suits your needs from home.
• I will visit you on a regular basis during this period to ensure that you are settling in well in your accommodation.

I can help you sort out your transportation issues!

• I will consolidate the public transport schedule around your accommodation and university for you so that you are aware of how to get around during this period.
• I can show you how the train ticketing system works.
• I can provide you with information on how apply for a driver’s licence in WA.
• Australia’s car market is very active, and you can purchase cars privately or from a dealer. I can assist you with your first purchase! There are certainly a lot of things to look out for that are different to your home country, and I know the safest way to ensure a smooth buying process, including all the hidden costs.

I can help you understand and address safety issues!

• I will show you where the safer venues are if you wish to go out for some night entertainment, and which places to best avoid.
• I will explain to you what to do/not to do when being approached by strangers in certain parts of the city.
• I will urge you to be vigilant about house safety and security, and will conduct an overall security check on your rental property if needed.
• I will also advise you on how to be extremely conscious when travelling on public transport, and when using train stations.

I can help you overcome social isolation and feel belonged!

• I will help you establish your core ties with fellow international students by suggesting the various Asian groups and clubs available in your university and in your local community.
• I will also link you in with other Aussie community groups within your locale that you may have an affinity with, such as religious groups.
• I will slowly introduce you to the wider Perth community beyond the university and the area where you live so you will gain a positive insight into a fuller life experience in Perth. This will include sports and the arts arena.

I can help you find the part time job you need!

• If needed, I will assist you with searching for a part-time job that suits your qualifications.
• I will assist you with the application for a Australian Tax File Number that is needed if you wish to work in Australia.
• I will explain to you how the Australian Taxation System works for income tax.
• I will ensure that you are employed by an employer that is paying fair wages, and that your working conditions are reasonable.
• I will also ensure that you strike a balance between work and studies, as this can be challenging for many working students.

I can help you settle in Perth comfortably and be there as your mentor and confidante!

• I will show you which are the best student groups to join, such as sporting clubs or the international student associations at your institution. The quicker you make friends the quicker you will settle into your new environment.
• I will offer confidential mentoring and advice on personal, social and academic matters, such as
  • culture shock
  • depression, stress and anxiety
  • relationship/family problems
  • adjusting to lifestyle and cultural differences
  • accommodation problems
  • academic difficulties

• I will also help you improve your written and spoken English language skills if needed.
• I will ease the transition by showing you where the best Asian eateries are (in case you miss the food back home!) It takes a Singaporean who has been living in Perth for 17 years to know the secrets!
• I will also take you on a tour of the city, and show you the sights of Perth from a Singaporean’s perspective.