The PlaceLab-er’s sat down with the Work Integrated Learning Students (WIL) to learn more about their fields of study and interest in the Voices From The Margins project. WIL programs allow students to gain practical skills while completing their studies, forming a more wholistic understanding of their chosen field.

3 people standing at the whiteboard.

Kathleen, Cecilia and Jamie preparing for the Focus Group. Image: RMIT PlaceLab.

What are you currently studying?

Jamie: I’m in my final year of a bachelor’s honour degree programme in social work.

Cecilia: I am an international student studying Bachelor of Social Work at RMIT. I am currently in my third year.

Kathleen: I’m currently studying Master of Social Work. I started this year, February 2022, so this is my first year, second semester.

Figure prepares a table for the workshop.

Jamie prepares PlaceLab for the Focus Group. Image: RMIT PlaceLab.

Why have you chosen to do your placement with the Lead Academics and the PlaceLab team for Voices from the Margins?

Jamie: For my placement, I chose to work with the Lead Academics and the PlaceLab team because I want to gain a better understanding of the challenges that international students face in Melbourne and develop a better understanding of international students’ support needs. In addition to working to improve the quality of the international student experience and focusing on unmet needs.

Cecilia: As an international student, I think it is an excellent placement opportunity for me to join a program focused on the voices of our group and be willing to make changes to improve. The idea of making Melbourne a more welcoming city for international students touched me deeply. Further, the PlaceLab team and Lead Academics are also friendly and passionate. It is easy to talk or work with them.

Kathleen: I chose this placement because I am an international student who wants my voice to be heard about my experiences during and after COVID-19, which may be of great assistance to the university and the City of Melbourne in determining what simple and common things I want to learn and need to feel more inclusive and enjoy my student life here in Australia. I also want to learn about and connect with other students’ experiences and wish to work in a field other than counselling in the future, so this will be an ideal method for me to begin.

Thanks, Jamie, Kathleen and Cecilia! We look forward to working with you the Voices From The Margins research project!