[Boppy music]

[Speaker: Pedro, International Student, scene is set inside a house]

Your first few weeks as an international student in a new city are so exciting, but incredibly important.

Let's go through some steps that you can take to help you settle in quickly.

That way, you're ready to enjoy all the life in Victoria has to offer!

[Scene switches to outside in front of a row of double story terrace houses on a tree lined street]

Firstly, it's time to move into a new home.

Depending on the type of accommodation you've chosen, there will be different preparations you need to make.

[Swoosh sound, scene moves to inside in front of a fireplace in a furnished room]

For example, if your accommodation is furnished, meaning it already has furniture - you can focus on stocking your kitchen and decorating.

[clicks fingers, furniture is removed from room]

If you're moving into a private rental that doesn't have any furniture, it's time to go shopping!

[Swoosh sound, scene moves to in front of a window close up, then laneways and shopping strips]

You won't have trouble finding stores selling homewares in your city.

Some secondhand stores, also known as “op shops”, also sell furniture and kitchenware at discounted prices.

You can also use social media and online marketplaces to find secondhand furniture and household items.

You’ll want to check if utilities are included, for example, electricity, internet and water.

[Scenes of Pedro walking in front of State Library of Victoria, busy city street corner and walking home through a treed laneway]

If they are not, you will need to arrange a provider.

Next, you’ll want to familiarise yourself with your new campus.

[Sunlit tall buildings, clouds in the sky]

Your education provider will hold an orientation week - sometimes called “O-Week” - for new students.

This will likely include campus tours, showing you where important services are, such as the library and security offices.

[Scenes around campus, Pedro checking phone from a high up building with views over the city]

If you already have your timetable, we recommend visiting your campus.

Visit the rooms and theatres where you will have workshops, tutorials and lectures.

It takes the pressure off trying to find them in the first week, especially if you're in a hurry between classes.

[Laneway scenes]

Finally, you’ll want to be up-to-date with everything happening at Study Melbourne, including all upcoming events and activities.

So, check out the website, sign up to the newsletter, and follow us on social media.

[Swoosh sound, laneway scenes, Hardware Lane signpost, looking up at heritage style building]

And, make sure to visit the Study Melbourne Hub in Melbourne’s city centre.

This space is dedicated to all international students in Victoria.

There is support, events, and a wonderful team full of advice to help you settle into life in Victoria.

We'll see you there soon!

[Smiles, Study Melbourne, Victoria Australia logo]