James is part of International House Darwin’s (IHD) Resident Leader (RL) team. He has been a RL for one semester.
Originally from Vietnam,
James is currently undertaking a master’s course at CDU and has been living at
IHD for seven months.
Australia is where to make my dream come true
James has always dreamed of living abroad, and studying overseas is just the beginning of that journey. Being far from home, he has learned how to take care of himself and manage the ups and downs of student life. Each experience has opened his eyes to the wider world and helped him discover more about who he is and what he wants to do. It’s been a journey of growth, both personally and professionally, setting him on the path toward his future.
James is in the middle, talking to the other residents
James was at the recent IHD Tropical Fiesta Party
“Supportive” is his first impression of IHD
James’ flight was delayed, so he didn’t arrive at IHD until about 3am. When he got here, a RL was ready to help him check in, which really stood out to him. The first week in Darwin was tough, he was busy figuring out transportation, where to buy groceries, adjusting to a new culture, and making new friends. But thanks to IHD’s orientation week and events, he began learning about the local way of life and how things worked in the community. He made new friends, got involved, and even enjoyed some free food, which made settling in a lot easier. This positive experience inspired him to apply for the RL role himself.
“Being a Resident Leader is more than just a job, it’s an opportunity to make people feel at home and create a sense of belonging”
Since becoming a RL, James has taken on the responsibility of organizing events and welcoming new residents. He’s passionate about giving back to the community that once supported him, ensuring that others have the same positive experience he did when he first arrived. He’s pouring his energy into making IHD a welcoming and supportive environment, and it’s been a rewarding experience for him as well.
Stay safe both physically and mentally
One piece of advice James would like to give his fellow residents is to stay safe, which means looking after both your physical and mental health. It’s not just about taking care of yourself; it’s also about ensuring that those around you feel safe. International students can often face challenges at any stage, such as adjusting to a new culture, managing academic pressures, and dealing with homesickness. It’s important to remember that a little kindness and understanding can go a long way in making the transition smoother for everyone.