Fraternitas 2020 International House - University of Melbourne
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Fraternitas
2020
International
House
IN THIS ISSUE
Meet our new Presidents Country Kid to the Big Smoke TREAD Phase 24 From IH to Oxford
Fraternitas NOV 2020
Fraternitas 2020
International House IN THIS ISSUE
The University of Melbourne
Fraternitas 2020 2
241 Royal Parade
Parkville VIC 3052 From the Head of College 3
Meet our IHSC President 4
Read Fraternitas online: www.ihouse.unimelb.edu.au/alumni
Meet our IHGSA President 6
Donations to International House can be made at Academic Support 8
www.ihouse.unimelb.edu.au/give
Country Kid to the Big Smoke 10
EDITING PANEL A Valedict’s Story 12
Thu Nguyen and Tamra Keating Tutor Review 13
From IH to Oxford 14
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tread Phase 24 16
Ben Levy, Dave Hirunsap and Thu Nguyen
Fragments of the Everyday 18
FEEDBACK 2020 in Colour 20
Fraternitas is published three times a year for the International Stay Connected 22
House community. We would love to hear from our valued Scholarships 23
alumni. Please email us at
Thank you to our Generous Donors 24
ih-alumni@unimelb.edu.au
Farewell Mrs Lyndal Pascoe 25
Cover image: Maria Callista and Caleb Shaw
2020 Virtual Open Day 25
Back cover image: Bryce Owen and Ishi Castro
International House Community 2020 - 2021 26
Countries and Regions 27
Meet our IHSC President Country Kid to the Big Smoke
TREAD Phase 24 From IH to Oxford
2
From the Head of the College
From the Head of College
Wellbeing meetings have been via Zoom Vi and her husband Pete Peterson
and checking in on students and following have been generous donors and
up needs has all still taken place in the supporter of scholarships at IH and were
COVID-world of 2020. The resilience, instrumental in securing a substantial
flexibility, positive approach and focus of scholarship donation from The Atlantic
our students has been a pleasure to see. Philanthropies. Vi Peterson truly believes
in the values and the mission of IH and
However, with the closing of borders and we thank Vi for her hard work and care for
the additional restrictions in Melbourne IH. To learn more about Mrs Vi Peterson
and Victoria, students’ decision making please visit our website here and here
and their commitment to living at IH for
2021 is hard to predict. The University I would like to sign off the November
of Melbourne has already contacted edition of Fraternitas with a thank you. I
current students with information that want to thank the IH students who have
many subjects will be delivered on-line stayed on with us though this year, taking
for at least Semester One in 2021, as the all their lectures and tutorials online,
The year 2020 has significantly situation is so unknown. and being part of a unique time for the IH
changed how we see the world and community. No student or staff member
In this edition of Fraternitas we read has contracted COVID-19 and there has
focused us all on what is important to about the importance of connection, been no transmission within the college
each of us. How can we fully know the as well as from an alumna fulfilling her community. This is something for which
long-lasting impact of the COVID-19 dreams at Oxford University, and we our IH community should be so proud of.
pandemic? However, through the also can read what it has been like for I would like to thank all our 2020 students
challenges and devastating effects, students and tutors living at IH during along with IH staff and contractors for
many positives have risen to the top. the pandemic. We can read about our the vigilance in which the COVID-safe
two recently elected student presidents, requirements have been upheld at IH
As a community, all at International House and the thoughts of these graduate and this year.
through this year have bound together undergraduate student club leaders.
and supported each other incredibly well. To all IH alumni across the world, this has
With approximately half our students We thank the many alumni and friends been an extraordinary year and I wish you
remaining in college, COVID-safe protocols who continue to be so connected to IH. strength and hope going forward. Please
became our new normal. Restrictions We were sadden to hear recently of the keep safe and look after each other.
have tightened, lessened, tightened again death of one of our foundation members,
and lessened again through the year. Mrs Lyndal Pascoe, but please read her Dr Deborah F Seifert AM
beautiful stories about IH in the early days Head of College
We were able to open up the college here. This link will also take you to a video
dining hall for some socially distanced interview with Lyndal which is on the IH
dining, then closed the dining hall, then website.
opened it again for some indoor dining,
all based on Health and Government At the last IH Council Meeting for the year,
and University guidelines. Study rooms in October, we thanked Mrs Vi Peterson who
have also opened, closed and then has been a dedicated and passionate Chair
opened again more recently to study- of Council for the past 5 years. Vi Le was a
buddy-bubbles of 6 students allocated to Student Resident at IH from 1979-1981 and
two-hour study blocks in tutorial rooms, embraced the ethos of the college. Then,
interspersed with necessary airing and close to thirty years later in March 2010
cleaning pattern. The IH community has as Mrs Vi Peterson, Vi joined IH Council,
successfully lived through Zoom tutorials, became Deputy Chair in October 2013 and
Zoom seminars, Zoom student and staff Chair in 2016. Vi Peterson has played an
meetings, continual hand sanitizing, integral role at IH and has passionately
and take-away meals. The library has represented IH. Vi Peterson’s work has been
continued to operate in a no-touch greatly appreciated and we are aware of the
takeaway book-order system. great amount of work she has done behind
the scenes in support of IH.
3
Fraternitas NOV 2020
Meet our IHSC President
I hope one day, however, that I can Starting such conversations at a young
connect with this side of my identity. I age emphasises that we all come
want to ensure that my heritage is a big from different walks of life and need
part of my identity, that makes me unique. to celebrate each other’s differences
and learn from them. I am so grateful I
Growing up brown in country Australia could help initiate the beginning of this
was a huge learning experience. Even conversation in such a small town.
though I was very privileged to experience
little blatant racism – I still felt like an Being the only openly gay student at the
outsider at times. Feelings of inadequacy time, I raised awareness, educated the
and isolation did crop up from time-to- secondary cohort on discrimination, and
time growing up seeing most (if not all in advocated for a safe and accepting space.
some settings) people do not look like me. I held presentations providing essential
It was very easy for me to walk into a room information, resources, as well as my own
and notice I was the only person of colour. experiences. I also asked the secondary
This isolation extends to the fact that I was students and staff to sign a pledge to act
My name is Bryce Owen. I am the mixed. I could not connect to my ‘white’ against LGBT+ prejudice in my school. The
side because of the superficial factor that pledge now sits at the school reception - it
President of International House
is my skin, and I could not connect to the is a constant reminder that the culture
Student Club (IHSC) in 2020 - 2021.
other side as I was so far removed from is shifting; there is ally support out
I was born and raised in Mallacoota; a that culture, which was quite evident there. Secondly, I drafted a policy, which
small coastal town located in the furthest in my strong Australian accent and my provides a standard and accountability for
east of Victoria with a population just consistent faux pas when I visited Timor- the school to act upon issues concerning
under a thousand. The town sat in Leste for the first time. the queer community. It was passed
the middle of bush and beaches. It is by the school council unanimously! I
However, as I got older, I grew into utilised leadership to start a culture that
interesting; I never really appreciated
myself. I saw to love my skin, my curls normalises being LGBT+ and people
just how beautiful Mallacoota was until
and everything about myself. I had a expressing themselves how they see fit. I
I left. For the most part, it is quiet and
finite amount of time in this lifetime, want to leave a legacy in which the school
sleepy. Coming back feels like a retreat
and I wasn’t going to spend it holding is a safe space for the Queer Community. I
from the big city – a place to relax in the
on to negativity and insecurities. I was hope one day Queer students never have
trees rustling, ocean waves, and animals
going to focus on reaching goals and to feel invalid.
(as opposed to the loud dinging of the
ambitions that my young self-thought was
19 tram or the gardener lawn-mowing
unattainable. After watching so many of the students
outside my window). As a kid, my main
in the year above not go to any of the
goal is to try and ‘escape’ Mallacoota – to I was School Captain for my last two years top universities and none of my family
be honest at points of my life; I did feel at Mallacoota P-12 College. It made me ever attending a university, I thought
isolated and trapped. The town is so grow and develop my leadership skills – to the University of Melbourne was so
removed from the rest of the world you become more proactive. I have a strong prestigious I would never be able to reach
can get a feeling of cabin fever for the 18 working drive, so I like to keep myself busy. it. It seemed like a far-removed dream
years you are there. When I was young, I Some of my most significant achievements of mine. However, putting my negative
couldn’t wait to leave, but now heading during that time included running the thoughts aside, I stayed committed
back feels like a reset and recharge. I am first ‘Cultural Day’ event with festivities and motivated. I was doing two classes
finally able to appreciate this place much celebrating people’s differences, heritage, online, and the biggest class I was in
and feel so lucky to have grown up there. culture and background and coming had nine people. I wasn’t going to let
together. We had fantastic food from my circumstances disadvantage me
My dad is Timor-Leste but migrated to
all sorts of cultures, outfits from across in achieving my ambitions. I worked
Australia. My mum is Australian. I have
the globe and storytelling from different hard and it finally paid off. I was doing
two younger sisters and a little dog too!
people’s experience from other countries accounting and economics in VCE
Growing up in Australia with only my mum
and cultures. What made this day a and loved it, so I decided Bachelor of
had caused me to be almost removed
highlight for me is it started a conversation. Commerce at the University of Melbourne
from my dad’s culture. Accepting and
The youngest years (the school was a prep was for me.
becoming proud of my skin, my identity
to year 12) began asking each other where
was a huge growing point for myself. I had
they are from, what are their backgrounds
realised there was power in upholding and
and where is that on the map!
accepting myself for who I am.
4
Meet our Ihsc President
IH means a place to be me, to grow into me. I want to be a president that is there They have already started their roles with
I have never felt so comfortable in a place for my committee and all IHers. I am so zest and proactiveness, and I am so proud.
before. IH is impressive in the fact that it thankful to have my amazing executive I’m grateful to be a part of something
brings different people from different walks committee for already being stars – I special, and next year will be a blast.
of life together. It has been invaluable am so excited to be working closely
learning from friend’s experiences and with them and becoming a reliable Bryce Owen (Australia)
forging lifetime friendships with the most team. Furthermore, I want to extend my Bachelor of Commerce student
interesting and unique people. I have learnt excitement to my committee as a whole. Dawn Wade Scholarship Recipient
that I can be who I am without judgement
because I have the power to surround
myself with positive people in my life that
help me grow.
I feel so grateful to have been at IH during
COVID-19. There wasn’t a time where I felt
isolated. I always believe that everything
happens in life for a reason, and lockdown
gave us the opportunity to work on the
stuff that you have meant to do, without
the external noise of the fast pace life
pre-lockdown. We have been put in a
place where everything is stripped back. I
really emphasised and worked on myself,
removing negative habits and starting new
ones. I have been so lucky in that I have
found my tribe - a group of people that
have come together (socially distantly).
We feel comfortable with each other and
are open in our conversations. I am so
grateful to have these beautiful people as
my support system.
Without the virus, I probably would not
have grown into the person that I currently
am – I am so thankful for that. I want to
be an example that determination trumps
fear. Anything can happen if you put your
mind towards it and work consistently. I
hope to be seen as an inspiration amongst
my peers, to give them the motivation to
shoot for gold. I initially planned to lay
low in my third year at IH. However, I soon
knew this was not going to be the case
because I genuinely love this community
and the opportunity of President allows
me to stay active and advocate for
student wellbeing and change. I hope to
push for keeping student wellbeing and
mental health into the forefront of the
conversation consistently. It is very easy to
get swept up in worrying thoughts about
events and such, that mental health gets
pushed to the side.
5
Fraternitas NOV 2020
Meet our IHGSA President
Bahar, an Australian citizen, was the During my bachelor’s degree in Iran, I have
biggest motivation for me to come to co-founded two associations. The first one
Australia. She has been mentoring me was the Association of Computer Engineering
about Australian values and culture. and the second one was a student branch of
Parisa currently works in Tehran as an the largest association in the world - Institute
expert in designing. She taught me how of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
to be a kind-hearted person and strive for I decided to participate in establishing them
achievements. because of my passion in being on a team
and working with people.
I was born with a disability - Spinal
Muscular Atrophy (SMA: Type 4), which is a I do believe that studying overseas is an
barrier to muscle growth and its strength. excellent opportunity for individuals.
This disease might or might not progress As a newcomer, I wanted to have this
overtime. In my case, it has stopped experience and socialise with people from
weakening my body for 16 years. The cure around the world. International House
of SMA has been discovered recently. It is has brought a kind-hearted community
My name is Saman Akbaryan. I am a one-time Gene injection, and after 6 or 7 who gives positive energy to me. There are
the President of International House months you will be cured. ZolgenSMA has many people to be named as my closest
been named as “The Most Expensive Drug friends at IH - Pawan, Arpan, Hiba, Steffany,
Graduate Student Association (IHGSA)
Ever Approved in Human History”, which and Aliya. We became close by studying
in 2020 - 2021.
costs $2 million dollars for 5.5 mL. My together or going out. I have this privilege
I was born into an artistic family in Iran. biggest objective is to become a famous to study in groups at IH with people who
My parents have a Bachelor of Fine Arts in person so I can afford this drug. are ahead of me. IH has increased my
theatre. My father and mother have retired productivity and giving me a chance to
Tehran - the city I grew up in is not network with new people. Every moment
as a documentarian and a high school
disabled-friendly at all. I had to rely on at IH is my favourite time. However, I loved
teacher respectively. They taught me the
two crutches in order to study, work the Welcome BBQ with the House. I met
most outstanding achievements in our
and go outside. In some of the photos, I Deborah and Dan, and we chat for an hour
lives are outside of our comfort zone. This
leaned on a wall or held someone’s hand about many interesting things.
notion helps me to embrace challenges
to stand up. Now living in Melbourne, I
and not to underestimate myself. I have
can still walk with crutches, but I prefer to One of my most remarkable memories at
two older sisters, Bahar and Parisa. In
sit in a wheelchair to save my energy for IH is witnessing the graduates’ unity. When
Persian, their names mean “Spring” and
upcoming achievements! COVID-19 restrictions started, people began
“Like an angel” respectively. I believe their
to panic buying, which culminated in the
names are quite fit with their personality
scarcity of essential items.
and characteristics.
6
Meet our IHGSA President
I brought up an idea to go to grocery Throughout human history, dark days careers. It also gives me this chance to
stores in the early morning using my came and went. We can look at challenges see how professional and bright-minded
disability concession to purchase essential in a different perspective and focus on my friends are. They are very creative
things for the community. All graduates the bright side. COVID-19 has changed and working with them is a pleasure. The
involved themselves in this idea, and the world, but it also gives us a boost committee and I are working together to
together we solved our issue. in creativity and learning opportunity. keep people in good health, both mentally
COVID-19 has taught me that ordinary and physically. We have organised many
I had this opportunity to help the graduate activities such as going to a restaurant and COVID-Safe activities such as Online Table
community at IH during these hard times hanging out with friends that I have taken Games to make sure graduates have some
by every single work I could do. The for granted are actually very precious and appropriate fun.
news of my actions was sent to Professor we should pay more attention to every
Duncan Maskell (the Vice Chancellor of the second in our life. My first plan for 2021 is to show my skills
University). These actions put my name on and enthusiasm in a part-time job or an
the list of Melbourne School of Engineering As the President of the IHGSA, I want internship. I believe Australia is a great
Community Excellence Awards. I was to make sure graduates have a great place to work, and people treat you
nominated by the former President and experience during their stay at IH, and equally and acknowledge your skills. This
Vice-President of IHGSA, Wallace Jin and with the help of my esteemed committee helps me to pave my way for helping this
Hiba Naeem respectively. I have been members, we can improve it. I think being excellent society.
shortlisted as “Student of the Year”. in the IHGSA committee, not just as a
President, will develop our teamwork Saman Akbaryan (Iran)
skill which is highly regarded in our future Master of Information Technology student
7
Fraternitas NOV 2020
Academic Support
I am passionate about helping students Some of my favourite topics include
succeed academically because I know Understanding compassion and suffering
the sacrifice international students make in contemporary organizations by Angela
leaving their friends and family behind to Pei Ju Chem, What is going on in our brain
move to Australia to study. I want to help that stops us from being perfectly rational
students achieve their goals. This made by Whitney Zhao and Macroeconomic
me apply for the position of graduate intuition, understanding monetary policy
academic officer at IH and I was fortunate and its effect by Vinay Chillara.
in getting the job. As a graduate academic
officer, I work closely with the IH academic Moreover, Dr. Katherine Firth organised
coordinator Dr. Katherine Firth to provide a 2-day Thesis Bootcamp which included
academic support to our graduate a 2-3-hour lecture on how to improve
students. We organise events such as writing skills followed by a 3 hours
Shut Up and Write, academic seminars, study period which allowed students to
and Thesis Writing Bootcamp to help complete a writing task such as an essay,
our graduate students improve their soft progress report or thesis.
There are many benefits of living at skills. We also run workshops throughout
Katherine recently hosted an
IH such as proximity to the University, the year on CV writing and creating an
Employability Mini-conference for
free access to sporting facilities, excellent LinkedIn profile for job search to
IH students and young alumni in
and pastoral care. For me, the main improve student’s employability.
collaboration with our IH tutor and
advantage is the academic support Initially we had planned several face-to- management consultant Dave Sachasiri.
provided by IH. The Angus Mitchell face events for our graduate students in We learned how to prepare the perfect
library located on the ground floor of 2020 but our plans were disrupted by the CV and how to write effective emails
the Founders building is open to all global pandemic and restrictions (such to subject coordinator, ideal research
IH residential students. The library as travel bans, event and mass gathering supervisor, and potential employers.
has over 6500 books with about 1000 prohibited). As a result, most face-to-face
2020 was indeed a challenging year
books borrowed by students during meetings at IH were cancelled and all
due to the global pandemic. We have
the academic year. Computers and events moved online. This was particularly
to work/study from home with limited
printers are also provided for students challenging as we were used to face-to-
social interaction. The graduate student
to use within the library. face communication and never had to
committee has done a great job organising
plan a virtual event at IH. Luckily, there
several online game events and movie
There are many study rooms available are several online meeting tools such
nights on Zoom to help students feel
for group and individual learning and as Zoom or Teams available for hosting
connected, providing care packs/dinners,
studying. As a research student, I need to online events and helpful guides on how
and sharing words of encouragement to
give presentations on my research project to organize and run a virtual event.
support graduate students during this
during laboratory meetings, division time. As an international student, it is
seminars, or committee meetings. I often We were able to host virtual Shut Up and
Write session every Tuesday from 8:30 to challenging for me to live in a foreign
use these IH study rooms which include country away from my support system
a large table and chairs, a projector, and 10:00pm on Zoom. Four virtual academic
seminars (2 seminars per semester) were (family and friends from home country)
a screen to prepare and rehearse my and to practice social distancing/avoid
presentations. organised with 2 to 4 graduate students
presenting their research at each seminar. face-to-face contact. The social and
One of the most interesting parts of emotional support I have received from
At IH, academic seminars are organised
this year’s academic seminars was the staff and students at IH during this
every semester to provide graduate
diversity of the speakers. We had graduate pandemic has helped me incredibly. I am
students opportunities to present their
students from the following departments: glad to have IH as my current home.
research. These seminars help graduate
students improve their presentation and mathematics and statistics, medicine,
Amarachi Amah (Nigeria)
public speaking skills. This is important as biotechnology, law, management,
Doctor of Phylosophy
all graduate students (both research and information systems, pharmaceutical
(Medical Biology) student
coursework) are required to give a verbal sciences and dental surgery presenting at
presentation during their studies. our seminars.
8
Academic Support
9
Fraternitas NOV 2020
Country Kid to the Big Smoke
This dream was only solidified by my I’m also employed by the House as
part time job throughout high school a Residential Assistant, who look to
at Bendigo Animal Hospital. I applied maintain the mental health and wellbeing
for a residential college as the sense of students. I really love this role as I’ve
of community really appealed to me always been interested in mental health
because, like most recent high school and a fierce advocate for normalising
graduates, I was a nervous wreck about mental health and body positivity. I’m also
moving out for the first time. I chose a Marketing Assistant and help to promote
International House as its values and IH to prospective students.
mission aligns perfectly with my own
morals; and my experience here so far The ‘IH experience has been wildly
has been exactly what I’d hoped. I’ve different for the past couple of months,
made friends I know will last a lifetime with the COVID-19 Pandemic wreaking
and I’ve had an experience I would havoc on everyone’s lives in different
never have had otherwise. Once of ways. In these strange, uncertain and
those experiences being the almighty O sometimes scary times, it’s easy to
No one can quite prepare you for Week, which is done pretty differently at lose focus on the things that are really
the post-normal experience that is residential colleges than at university. I important, like uni, friends and family
was painfully shy going into my O Week, along with your own mental and physical
University. What will I study? Will I
scared that I wouldn’t fit in or wouldn’t health.
make many friends? What will my
experience be like? Will it be a hero’s make any friends; but IH was so incredibly
IH has been so amazing in fostering an
welcoming and the people I met and
journey, or a cheesy teen romance? incredibly supportive environment for
the friends I made are so much like me
A good old comedy or maybe a all of us regarding anything we may be
it’s kind of scary. It was one of the most
Shakespearean tragedy? What will be struggling with, regardless of whether
amazing weeks of the year and then, after
my tale of woe? Well mine certainly we’re on campus or had to return home
being an IH’er for a while I was able to
has been a tale but thankfully without due to the virus. IH as a college, along with
become an O Week leader myself.
the student club, has taken care of us and
too much woe.
Being an O Week leader was such a encouraged us to do things to take care of
rewarding thing for me, being able to ourselves, both mentally and physically.
My name is Abbey Milligan, I’m give new students the same amazing Studying online has been one of the
a second year at the University experience I had, and watch them make strangest experiences by far; university
friends, gain confidence and come out inherently makes you more independent,
of Melbourne student and a
of their shells just like I did. There are so they don’t spoon feed you and you have
senior undergraduate resident
many events at IH to get involved in like to be on top of everything; but studying
at International House. It can be
sports, student clubs, formal dinners online has taken this to an entirely new
scary moving to the city when
(including a fancy pants annual ball) and level. Staying connected to friends both
your own hometown pales in at uni and at college has helped me stay
countless cultural integration activities
comparison to the big smoke. The motivated and not lose track of what day
and events particular to IH, making it
move from Bendigo to Melbourne it is.
special and different from other colleges,
was a pretty big change however making its vision and purpose abundantly
it’s been one of the best decisions This time in quarantine and at home in
clear - to integrate students of all cultures
this ‘new normal’ has really helped me,
and one of the best experiences of and backgrounds, making them more
even if it was nothing but annoying at first.
my life so far. open, accepting and helping them
I’ve got to spend so much more time with
become global citizens.
my family who I miss immensely when
There are also many other leadership I’m in Melbourne, and I’ve fallen back
I graduated from Catherine McAuley
and employment opportunities at IH. into old habits that really makes me feel
College Bendigo in 2018. I am studying
In the 2019-2020 term, I was part of the at home. I’ve also been able to revisit old
Agriculture and Animal Science at
Student Club Committee as the Outreach hobbies and passions that I forgot about
Melbourne Uni with my dream of
and Environments Representative; while completely in the hustle and bustle of uni
becoming a veterinarian.
in the 2020-2021 term, I was elected as and college life.
IHSC’s Vice President, tasked with running
the undergraduate student body and
organising all the activities and events.
10Country Kid to the Big Smoke
I’ve been able to really get back into my
art, even making an Instagram for all the
new ideas and inspiration COVID-19 and
lockdown has given me. The student
club has also been amazing in organising
virtual activities and events to help
students stay connected to the college
and their friends. Things like photo or
video submission challenges, Zoom call
parties and games nights along with
continuing with normal IH tasks, like GM’s
and elections, which really helps bring
some normalcy to not very normal times.
Being elected as the Vice President of IH
was an absolute honour and I hope to fill
the very large shoes of my predecessors.
Working alongside the President, I really
hope to help lead us out of the uncertainty
of 2020 and COVID times into a brighter,
more prosperous future. A future where
the IH spirit can reignite, where even
if things don’t fully go back to normal,
there’s still an overarching sense of
community, fun, support and ‘fraternitas’
at International House.
Abbey Milligan (Australia)
Bachelor of Agriculture student
Clifford Family Scholarship Recipient
11Fraternitas NOV 2020
A Valedict’s Story
while I was still in Hong Kong applying for where I gained some insight into how
universities. I had not originally intended Student Club and the committee was
to stay at any residential college. However, run. I also became an IT assistant at
this is my third year at IH, and I would not the IH library, where I learned how to
have changed a thing. troubleshoot the network problems many
students had and assist them.
My first year at college would probably be
a common experience to everyone who In my third year, I volunteered as an
lived at IH. Cozy single rooms, a wave of O-week leader to welcome many new
new friends and just living at IH for the students to IH and helped them transition
first time. But one of my highlights would to living at a college. I was delighted to
be getting to meet and interact with such be able to help many new students begin
a large and diverse community. Whether their journey living at IH, as I was once
I was bumping into a fellow IHer on the helped by my O-week leaders.
tram or tracking down vegetarians at high
table dinners for an extra slice of salmon, My ultimate highlight in IH would be
I would always find myself intrigued to simply living in the same building and
Diving straight into O-week where I
learn more about someone else. With even the same apartment with some of
got to meet new people every day, I my best friends that I have made at IH.
every conversation I was able to continue
had great fun in many activities and Sometimes it would feel like a very long
learning about the culture of many others
made some new friends along the way. holiday even during the semester!
living at IH, but the IH culture at the
Every formal dinner or IHSC event after same time. I have grown to become more
Commencement Dinner just left me Next year I plan to return to university in
socially active and also gained some
anticipating the next one. order to pursue mechanical engineering
insight into interacting with people from
as a postgraduate student in Melbourne.
many different backgrounds.
Nothing beats the gym at IH which is I am very grateful to be one of the
at most two minutes away from any I quickly became invested in being scholarship winners at IH, and I have
room within the college, and it has all involved in college activities as I saw ample become even more motivated to continue
the equipment I needed for a standard opportunities for fun as well as growth. my studies. IH has been a transformative
workout. The kitchen staff prepared After winning the intercollegiate dance place for me and although I am leaving
all the meals, which I spent countless competition, I started doing other things the college, I would be leaving IH fulfilled
hours eating together with my friends. I never imagined doing. Be it dancing on and excited to join those waiting for me at
The coffee machine in the Dining Hall the stage in front of hundreds or trying to the next milestone.
was always worth making small trips win the hearts of IH in a speech, I always
for. It’s hard to remember life before IH Laurence Lee (Hong Kong SAR)
sought to learn and experience more. I then
just three years ago, when most of my Bachelor of Science student
became the secretary of IHSC,
cohort had already left to study overseas Rotary Club of Malvern Scholarship Recipient
12Tutor Review
Tutor Review
For those of you who met me during we offered remote consultations and spent
Orientation Week, you got to know me as more time on our emails and Zoom than
a recent returnee to Australia, after living ever before. However, with any change
and working for many years in Canada in comes the opportunity to be innovative
similar residential college settings. When and try something different, and focusing
moving back to Australia and to IH, I was on the online environment saw new
eager to introduce aspects of the student initiatives, events, and workshops, all
life culture that I’d experienced overseas facilitated virtually.
to the community here, and took on the
role anticipating running workshops, Over the year I was inspired by the
events and working with students amazing work our tutor team has done to
individually to support their personal support online learning, buoyed by the
development and residential experience. thoughtful notes I’ve seen neighbours
Since the COVID-19 restrictions, I learned leave on each other’s door, and kept
instead to cultivate my creative side, smiling by every little conversation with
creating graphics for our digital screens, our incredible CaterCare team as they
When I was first approached to write designing Canvas pages for student kept us nourished over this rollercoaster
an article for this year’s Fraternitas, wellbeing and collaborating on small of a year. Despite being under restrictions,
goodies like exam and self-care kits. you all kept me sane and entertained with
my initial and immediate reaction
books of the week in the newsletters,
was, Oh my gosh, what am I even
For the academic tutor team, the year was recommendations for a new Netflix show
going to write? What could I say about nothing like any before it, and certainly or movie, and stairwell suggestions of new
this year, which has been defined by nothing any of us expected. Though we music to check out.
such significant change, upheaval, managed to run regular floor suppers at
and global uncertainty? the start of the year, these gatherings were This year might not have been anything
quickly limited once restrictions fell into that we expected, but it did teach me
Many of us started the year with excitement the strength of the IH community, the
place, and we had to adapt to hosting virtual
about being a part of this amazing resilience of its students and the genuine
floor meetings and drop-ins, doing our best
community, and moved in looking forward kindness of its staff. I know that it is these
to maintain the sense of community and
to sharing meals at Community Dinners, virtues and values which will help us
support for students. Instead of conducting
cheering each other on in Intercollegiate overcome both the current and future
regular tutorials, our tutors had to learn
Sports, and relaxing with movie nights in challenges from this year, and I hope that
to be extra Blackboard and Canvas savvy,
the Junior Common Room. Instead, we you continue to embody this meaning of
shifting our teaching online to follow
very quickly learned to adjust to socially Fraternitas, wherever you go next.
lectures and other classes at the universities.
distant conversations in line at the dining
Rather than doing door-to-doors and
hall, studying with online classes and just Meng Lim (Australia)
checking in on students individually,
doing our best to keep our community safe. Dimmick Tutor
13Fraternitas NOV 2020
From IH to Oxford
During her 4 years as an undergraduate She describes the post graduate study
student, she was also a resident at to be very similar as in Australia, with
International House starting in 2015 and classes and teacher-student interaction
graduating in 2018. She described all of being incredibly similar, however their
her best memories at IH involving the terminology and traditions are vastly
amazing friends she made, mainly other different. Li was especially shocked and
biomedical students who also attended confused by her ‘matriculation’ upon
IH tutorials, which are some incredible starting her PhD; a ceremony when you
opportunities distinct to colleges start your new degree, in a hall wearing
that bring people together, especially ‘sub fusc’ (black and white clothing) where
after being thrown into such a new people speak a whole lot of Latin. This
environment. left a lasting impression on her, but also
prepared her for the many new traditions
They bonded over their shared interests, and terminology she would encounter, like
arguing over certain questions and the finance office being called the ‘battel.’
studying for exams together. Li describes
Anna Li - PhD Ion Channels and IH as being such a fostering environment Anna Li is currently in her first year of a
for excellence as well as lifelong Doctor of Philosophy, Ion Channels and
Disease at Oxford University. Anna was
relationships, where you can eat, study Disease, a course that only four other
an IH resident between 2015 – 2017.
and live together. The college also gives students are undertaking. This PhD is a
‘Chrioelectromicroscopy is where you its students amazing opportunities to 4-year course, with the first year consisting
freeze a protein and then a camera that try new things, with Li being involved in of 2 five-month lab rotations in which they
detects electrons captures the protein organising events such as Cultural Dinners decide what project they want to pursue in
from different angles, and from that you and Cafe Internationale. She waitressed their remaining 3 years. Li is interested in
can use algorithms to determine a 3D and MC’d at some of these events, both continuing her passion for ion channels and
model of the protein… Wait haha, did that things she never knew she could do, and proteins and their relationship with disease.
make sense?’ This was one of the many was even able to list these experiences Ion channels are proteins that reside in the
memorable quotes during my interview when she applied for her first part time membrane of cells, these proteins have
with IH alumni, Melbourne University job. She lists her most memorable times pores, opening and closing to allow the
graduate and current Oxford University at IH being O Week, the Fresher Dance Off movement between the inside and outside
PhD student, Anna Li. This interview was and Battle of the Bands, made even more of the cell. Due to this highly specific and
more like a conversation, and her story special being surrounded by her friends. integral function, they play a very important
along with her research could not have role in many diseases and this is what Li
After graduating with honours in seeks to study, or more specifically, the
enthralled me more.
Biomedicine from Melbourne Uni, muscle protein acetyl choline.
Anna Li was born in New Zealand and after she immediately applied for graduate
attending primary school in China and programs in the UK, Oxford University Li always wanted to be an academic
being a high school boarder at Melbourne’s more specifically, from which she was researcher and after graduating from
Methodists Ladies College, she began thrilled to be accepted. After spending her PhD, she wants to gain even more
her career in academia at the University most of 2019 as a gap year, working and research experience and post-doctoral
of Melbourne, studying a Bachelor of travelling, she began her post graduate research, maybe even apply for her own
Biomedicine. While studying her Bachelor work in October of 2019. There were fellowship and her own lab. Like her
with an Honours year researching calcium so many cultural shocks for Anna upon experience in Melbourne, she decided
ion channels in relation to disease, more her arrival in the UK, like that of the to live in a residential college and she
specifically regarding epilepsy, she would architecture. Oxford is a very old and currently resides at Green Templeton
collaborate with clinical scientists and small city, where most buildings are College, one of the newer colleges for post
epilepsy patients, undertaking genetic historical sites or even have names. The graduate students only. Green Templeton
screenings and in vitro experiments to public transportation was also extremely College has a very strong medical and
study mutations in genes to determine different. She used to complain about social science background, with a heavy
why these mutations cause epilepsy, she Melbourne trams being late sometimes focus on academic programs, hosting
love and passion for this research not only but now in the UK they are always late! many internal and external seminars. Li
revolves around this study of cause and lists so many similarities and differences
effect, but also using this understanding to between IH and her new residential
find treatments and potentially cures. college, with shared interests and passion
being the most prevalent similarity.
14From IH to Oxford
Anna Li said that her friends helped her
get to where she is, from their support and
shared interests and are part of why she
decided to stay in academia.
Her experience or ‘end-point’ may
have been different if she hadn’t
gone to IH, as students at this
college have so many amazing
opportunities, with an education
at UniMelb preparing you for most
things in life and also providing
you with so many connections.
Her advice to current IH’ers and
undergraduate students is to keep
an open mind and apply for any
and all opportunities that come
your way.
Everyone is bright and talented, so make
sure you apply to things you are passionate
about to make sure you’re in the running.
Her parting message is that she hopes
everyone stays safe during this time and
to look after your family and friends. This
interview was one of the most inspirational
conversations I’ve ever had and have
inspired me to pursue my passions, and
hopefully this article and her words will
inspire others to pursue theirs.
Abbey Milligan (Australia)
Bachelor of Agriculture student
15Fraternitas NOV 2020
Tread Phase 24
Each summer, a group of The bathrooms will not only be used for The ways of living in Thailand are so
International House students travel to its intended purpose but to also help different from here in Australia and
the Buriram province of rural Thailand kids learn about proper hygiene. The this program brought to mind how
to spend a month volunteering and designated garbage zones will be used to fundamental our fundraising will be to
help educate the children about recycling these gorgeous communities. Seeing the
teaching English. This project is
and how to convert waste into something effects our money had in the past made
known as the Thai Rural Education
useful. This creates a basic economy for the us realise how much more we could
and Development (TREAD) project.
children so they can get an understanding fundraise. No matter how much money
TREAD was founded by IH alumni of how to use money wisely, as well as the any TREAD team has raised, there will
Mechai Viravaidya over 20 years incentive for cleaner living. always be a need for more. We can assure
ago and it allows the students of all donors that any money donated goes
IH to make a positive contribution One of the greatest memories at straight to the school projects. We say
to the international community Watnamlai School was teaching students this with confidence as this is a small
and to strengthen cross-cultural how to limbo, we were assigned to an student-run organisation with volunteers
older year group who absolutely loved it. and this allows us to personally see how
communication and learning.
When we turned around, we found that the money is being used and the impacts
On the 4th of January 2020, phase 24 the younger class who had been watching it has brought and will bring to the
of TREAD began our incredible learning us play, had begun their own limbo with communities supported by us.
experience. The team was composed rope they made out of rubber bands!
of four core members – David Fowler Other notable moments were performing David, Eliza, Rosie and Anton
who was originally from Thailand, Eliza on a stage for Thai Teacher’s Day in the
Maynard, Anton van Buuren and Rosie intense tropical heat and also learning INTERESTED IN DONATING? EVEN
Forrest from Australia. Over the next 27 how to cook traditional Thai delicacies A FEW DOLLARS CAN MAKE A HUGE
days, we resided at the Nang Rong district such as sticky rice in bamboo. DIFFERENCE!!!
of Buriram, where the Rajaprajanugroh If you would like to contribute to the
51 Buriram School was located. During TREAD Progam, please contact David
our time there we taught over 80 English Fowler at davjamfow@gmail.com
lessons. The themes include, but not
limited to, sports, countries, food, school
subjects and daily conversations. As
well as teaching our students, we also
had interactive learning sessions with
teachers. This was such an enjoyable
experience as everyone was having so
much fun with us. We also hosted multiple
intensive English camps across a few
other schools within the same district. We
found that most of them were far better
at English than we expected and the
challenge was simply bringing out their
confidence in the language. Our team
aimed to make the classes as interactive
as possible in an attempt to break the
typical teaching approach used by most
Thai teachers, in order to get the students
comfortably speaking English.
As for the development aspect of TREAD,
we had visited other local schools where
funding was lacking. These schools had
proposals for us which require funding
in order to bring necessities such as
acceptable bathroom facilities and a proper
garbage disposal and recycling zone.
Anton van Buuren, Rosie Forrest, Eliza Maynard and David Fowler
16Tread Phase 24
17Fraternitas NOV 2020
Fragments of the Everyday
Looking through the photo albums from This image-making medium was a
1960-70, I found myself in much admiration precursor to what younger generations
of the different ways former IH students recognise today as Instagram, the widely
documented the everyday. What stood out used social media application through
were a small collection of film negatives which many of us document and share
donated by Julian Gardner (IH resident, moments of our lives. Our everyday life
1963-67 and Chair of the International prior to the pandemic has dissolved into
House Council, 1993-2000), kept in its an increasingly online existence through
original envelope from the film processing our laptops and phones. The constant
shop. These were fragments cut out from shifting between the physical to digital
a longer film roll, separated from their challenged the notion of presence,
respective developed prints. Together with especially what it means to be present in
IH librarian and archivist Dr. Caitlin Stone, I the moment. With humanity experiencing
learned how to digitally archive them using space and time like never before, this
a built-in component in a flatbed scanner in year represents a huge challenge for the
the library office. The negatives translated social life at International House due to
One rainy Friday afternoon during on the computer to result in the actual COVID-19 restrictions. Because we spend
Melbourne’s Stage 4 lockdown, I had image: framed within an unconventional more time socially distant from each other
the valuable opportunity to view the square-shape, unlike the typical landscape and engaging virtually with the outside
archival collection of International and portrait orientation of that time. world, we habituated the condition of
House. This extensive collection is a Captured within them are a group of IHers being international from our individual
making jokes, laughing, drinking beer and rooms, rather than culturally engaging
home to some 800 black and white
smoking inside one of the dormitories. with each other in the flesh.
photographs, which mostly document
Others depicted a group of friends on a trip,
special occasions and formal events. A virus, with no respect for personal
relaxing by the beach and going swimming.
boundaries or international borders,
Many of them were taken by professional
Gardner had taken these images on Kodak caused many IH residents this year to
photographers, for the purpose of
Co.’s revolutionary Instamatic camera, suddenly return to their home countries.
publicity in local and international media
an analogue device smartly designed Social gatherings and communal events,
to promote IH as a successful ‘experiment
and ready for the fleeting moment. Its which IH had long prided themselves
in international living.’1 However among
sophisticated design incorporated a self- as part of the core community values,
these carefully composed images, are
contained flash and unique easy-to-load are considered ‘non-essential’ as a
some informal photographs taken by
film cartridge, elevating the Instamatic consequence of COVID-19 restrictions.
students, revealing a more personal peek
above other cameras then on the market.2
into the everyday lives of former residents.
18Fragments of the Everyday
This certainly posed a challenge on the Access to these images by Julian Gardner
nature of the more traditional processes during today’s coronavirus quarantine,
of friendship typically formed through brought about a sense of longing for
active participation in communal social life and sense of togetherness.
activities, as mentioned in the Satadal by They certainly remind us that non-
Nicos Kanaris, a student from Cyprus: essential human interaction holds cultural
significance and carries the weight of a
nascent community. Although the virus
seems to undermine our social activities,
At the House friendships are
our irreversible everyday experiences in
established and consolidated under
quarantine are still valid and significant
conditions of active living, whether to the history of IH. Most of us have them
in mental activities (discussion and digitally stored on our phones or uploaded
spiritual struggles) or in physical to Instagram or Facebook, but the archives
activities (indoor and outdoor at International House offer another space
sports). The residents of the House for our own fleeting moments to be kept
have established friendships which with care. It is truly valuable for future and
I am sure will be remembered for current IHers residents to engage with
a long time to come. This was not the archive, as a way of uncovering and
done by mutual tolerance only
understanding the culture of documenting
the everyday by IHers over the years.
(which was itself obvious at all
times), but by active participation Arinah Rizal (Malaysia)
in communal activities.3 Master of Architecture student
1 Brian Jones, “From the Warden: Sir Ian Clunies-Ross and International House,” Satadal, no. 1, 1961, p.6.
2 Tom Tobin . "Kodak Instamatic camera turns 50".(2013-03-29) Retrieved from: Usatoday.com.
3 Nicos Kanaris, “International House: The First Years,” in Satadal, no. 3 1961. Retrieved from: https://blogs.unimelb.edu.au/international-house-melbourne/2020/05/14/international-house-the-first-years/
19Fraternitas NOV 2020 2020 in Colour 20
2020 in Colour
21Fraternitas NOV 2020
Stay Connected
THE IMPORTANCE OF A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Community has a positive impact on your
wellbeing, and I believe that at IH you are Being a member of a community
never truly alone. You can walk out of your also means you should care about
door and easily find someone who you those in need. I have recently
can have a chat with. IH has been amazing
started serving at the Empower
in offering that sense of community and
Food Pantry in Southbank, a
support, no matter what season we are in.
ministry of Planetshakers church,
Even though we have the staff and tutors
at IH, the strongest support system that which helps distribute food and
IHers have are each other. We also have essential items to international
the IH alumni network for support. Due to students and families who are
COVID-19 restrictions, many students had affected by COVID-19.
to leave IH to go back to their families in
Australia or their home country. However
they still remain members of the IH Reaching out checking in with someone
community. and asking if they are okay is simple yet
2020 has been a challenging year for so important, we all need to support
most people, especially those who are We may not be able to physically meet,
each other. “You don’t need to be an
but we still have networks of support. We
living under lockdown restrictions. expert to reach out – just a good friend a
can still study and eat together through
This season has enabled me to reflect great listener”. Looking after your mental
video calls. We try to adjust to “the new
and consider the importance of a health/wellbeing and staying connected is
normal” and stay positive. The word
supportive community. For me, a vital during this season. You are not alone,
“community” has never been so important
supportive community has been we will get through this together!
as it is in this tough time.
integral to my mental health and James Velten (Australia)
wellbeing. Living in a community also offers support
Bachelor of Arts student
and connection that assist with the feeling
Community is defined as a group of of isolation that a lot of people feel during
people living in the same place or having this pandemic. It is difficult to maintain
a particular characteristic in common. relationships with people when we are
Whether I was in my hometown Malaysia apart, but I found that having virtual catch
or here in Australia, community has been ups really help to maintain relationships.
so important to me. The supportive You could do Zoom workouts, virtual cook-
community at IH has made me realise along, watch Netflix movies together or
that I am capable of so much. Living at even play online games. Staying connected
IH has really boosted my self esteem and during COVID-19 is so important and for me
helped me settle into life in Melbourne. I it really lifts my spirits to connect with my
have never been an outgoing and social community, whether they are in Australia
person, but ever since I joined IH last year, or back in Malaysia. I still keep in touch with
I have found a community that has helped my family and friends in Malaysia, and that
me thrive. We all have people who make has helped ward off any feeling of loneliness
up our own individual community. For during this challenging time. We can still
me the highlights of my IH comunity are stay connected in these circumstances, we
my best friend from Hong Kong, my close just need to be a little creative! Recently it
friend from Penang and my supervisor at was my friend’s birthday but we could not
IH. They have always been there for me, meet each other due to social distancing,
supporting me since day one. so I sent a cake to her place via UberEats!
It’s small gestures like this that help us to
maintain our community.
22Scholarships
Scholarships
The scholarship I was able to have during my 2 years at IH helped me in more ways imaginable.
I was able to study in a safe, secure, supported place at IH, with amazing academic and pastoral
support to help me through my studies. I was able to be in a place bursting with life and activities
and make incredible friends which I am sure will last for many years to come. I was able to bloom
and thrive at IH than I ever had before in my life. It truly changed my life and made an incredible
impact on me.
Aanya Gunawansa (Sri Lanka)
Bachelor of Science (Animal Health and Disease)
Andrew Lee Scholarship recipient
The Dawn Wade Scholarship has enabled me to study at The University of Melbourne and live at
International House. It has allowed me to form connections with amazing people from all around
the world, be within walking distance to university, join clubs and societies, and alleviate financial
anxiety. So far, my experience at IH has been fantastic! I’m aiming to excel in my studies as well as
contribute to the IH community, and it’s this scholarship that has allowed me to do this.
Caleb Shaw (Australia)
Bachelor of Commerce (Finance and Economics)
Dawn Wade Scholarship recipient
The scholarship has allowed me to gain a level of self confidence and recognition for my accomplishments
that I have made throughout my university experience and my time at International House. I would like
to thank my scholarship sponsor for this opportunity, as I was able to feel recognised for my contribution
to International House and further appreciate the unique experiences that I was able to gain throughout
my stay here. Being awarded with this scholarship has helped me to reflect back on all the beautiful and
life-long memories that I have made. I would like to take this as an opportunity to give back to the IH
community through my actions and continue to work hard towards my goals in the future.
Shoko Makino (Japan)
Bachelor of Arts (Sociology and Development Studies)
Donovan-Johnston Scholarship recipient
International House was a perfect fit in terms of my values of internationalism, sharing of
culture, and openness to new experiences. Getting the 1964 Alumni scholarship has given me the
opportunity to experience IH for another year, which I am so grateful for. I enjoyed my first year at
IH so much that staying for a a second year was the most logical step, as this also allowed me to
become a committee member in the IHSC and an O-week leader. This opportunity has let me meet
more people from unique backgrounds and share stories with them, and I’m so grateful for that.
Ikshvak Prithvish Sobti (USA)
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Design and Production)
1964 Alumni Scholarship recipient
An International House scholarship can open doors for students of talent and promise, helping them to achieve their potential
regardless of financial hardship. A scholarship at International House will enable a student to have the freedom they need to learn and
develop into global leaders of the future.
If you would like to contribute to the scholarship funding at International House,
please contact Ms Tamra Keating – Director of Marketing & Advancement:
tkeating@unimelb.edu.au or +61 3 9345 7558.
23You can also read
