20 August 2026: For Australia Awards scholars arriving at the University of Canberra, beginning their studies means adjusting not only to a new university, but often a new country, culture and academic environment.
This semester, the University welcomed three new Australia Awards scholars – Han Nguyen from Vietnam, Pichsovann Chhim from Cambodia and Galliart James from the Federated States of Micronesia.
From 13 July to 7 August, the scholars took part in the University’s four-week Introductory Academic Program (IAP) and orientation, designed to give Australia Awards recipients an early start before they begin their formal studies.
The IAP supports scholars during their first weeks in Australia, helping prepare them for the demands of university study and familiarising them with the academic environment and support available at the University.
Led academically by UC Library and Study Skills staff, the program covers skills including essay planning, tutorial discussion, Academic Integrity/AIM module, summarising and paraphrasing. Scholars also complete ungraded assignments that replicate the University’s assessment processes and provide opportunities for formative and summative feedback.
Alongside academic preparation, the Student Wellbeing and Support team introduces scholars to life in Canberra through cultural activities, local excursions, visits to Canberra landmarks and institutions, and a guided campus tour.
For University of Canberra student and Australia Awards scholar Jeramie Joyce Domingo, who arrived from the Philippines as part of the Semester One cohort, the program gives scholars valuable time to find their feet before their degrees begin.
“The IAP aims to give Australia Awards scholars an early start before our formal studies begin,” Mrs Domingo said.
“Scholars are introduced to the IAP in our home countries before travelling to Australia, and the program helps us become familiar with the Australian academic environment, our chosen university’s systems and support services, and the expectations of university study.
“It gives us time to adjust, build confidence and feel more prepared before beginning our degrees.”
Jeramie completed the program alongside Agatha Topai from Papua New Guinea and Abraham Itsimaera from Nauru earlier this year.
For Ms Topai, those first weeks at the University helped establish a sense of belonging.
“As a thriving adult learner, my first days at UC – especially through the Introductory Academic Program – affirmed that I belong here and that I’m ready for this next chapter,” Ms Topai said.
“The IAP showed me that UC is a place where I can grow, excel and thrive.”
For Mr Itsimaera, the support helped ease the transition back into university study.
“Returning to university after so long felt daunting, and the support I received genuinely lifted me up,” he said.
“Their guidance helped me start my studies with real confidence instead of struggle.”
The Australia Awards experience is also about what scholars can take home after completing their studies.
For Mr Domingo, that means using the knowledge and international perspectives gained at the University to support the Philippines’ creative industries.
“I hope to help open international pathways for Filipino creatives – so our stories, talents and creative industries can thrive not just locally, but on the global stage,” he said.
As the new cohort begins their own studies, they join a growing community of Australia Awards scholars at UC – building the skills, confidence and connections they can carry with them throughout their studies and beyond.
