The Master of Speech Language Pathology welcomes students with diverse experiences and perspectives. However, some domestic students from equity or diverse backgrounds struggle to engage in the intense program and transition into early units and placements. International students face additional challenges, including navigating new university and workplace settings and cultural and linguistic differences, often with limited social support. To support first-year students, we focused on enhancing early relationships and sense of belonging, increasing access to informal peer support and mentoring, and facilitating inclusivity and preparedness for placements. Three simple additions were implemented: a welcome and information session for international students, an informal fortnightly conversation club (Conversation Corner), and a journal club session for educators to support diverse and international students. Domestic and international students attended Conversation Corner in increasing numbers, gaining confidence and personalized guidance. Practice educators shared insights and identified strategies to better support student preparation and success. These adaptable practices promoted earlier staff-student connections and fostered a supportive learning environment.
Teaching@Sydney