Finding Home Abroad

Mannix is home to over 300 Monash University students across Australia and the world. In 2023, 10% of our community are from overseas. Within our diverse community, we create a nurturing environment that fosters academic growth, cultural immersion, and personal development. Recognised as an excellent choice for international students, Mannix embraces diversity, facilitates global connections, and propels students toward a successful future.

Meet Zarin Ali, an international student hailing from West Bengal, India, pursuing a Master’s in Earth Science at Monash University. Zarin chose to call Mannix College her home during Semester 1, 2023, and decided to extend her stay for a second semester. Her decision was influenced by Mannix’s convenient location just across the road from Monash University and the excellent catering options, offering quality meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Little did she know she would discover such a vibrant and welcoming community, forming lifelong friendships along the way!

As a postgraduate student, Zarin resides in Gryphon House, an accommodation option that provides individual apartments with en-suite bathrooms. Gryphon House also offers a shared common space and a kitchen for students. However, Zarin often enjoys the delicious and convenient meals Mannix provides, making the kitchen less of a necessity during her demanding study weeks.

Zarin has enjoyed her time at Mannix.

Our international students actively participate in college sports, music, and other student club events and programs, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.

When asked about her experience at Mannix, Zarin shared, “I think the library is a wonderful place that we have here, and I love studying there. The Gryphon rooms are really good, with excellent common rooms and study spaces.”

Despite missing her family and adjusting to Melbourne’s cooler climate compared to India, Mannix College has eased her transition to studying at Monash. Zarin admires the fantastic facilities available at Mannix, and she humorously mentions, “I think I use the free coffee machines too much! You can have as many as possible, free of charge, at any time of the day or night.”

Zarin’s favourite aspect of staying at Mannix is the opportunity to network with people from diverse backgrounds and engage in stimulating conversations on various subjects. She particularly enjoys the formal dinners that bring together individuals from different industries, fostering a sense of community and connection.

Mannix continues to be a welcoming home for international students like Zarin, offering a nurturing environment that supports their academic and personal growth and provides opportunities for cultural exchange and lifelong friendships.

Words by Noel Reid.