In Wollongong, a lively home buzzes with laughter, animated discussions, and the daily humdrum of family life.
However, this is no ordinary Australian household. Instead, it serves as the residence of Alison and her family, who warmly welcome and accommodate international students visiting Wollongong.
With her family, she has become an integral part of the UOW College Homestay program, welcoming a diverse group of Thai study tour students.
The sights and sounds within Alison's home are a testament to the global village that the Homestay program fosters.
Home Away from Home
It's here that barriers are broken down, differences celebrated, and a shared humanity discovered.
The homestay students from Thailand blend seamlessly into the Australian household, partaking in everyday family activities and immersing themselves in the local culture while bringing a dash of their own.
"The main benefit is the cultural exchange" Alison says, reflecting on her experience.
My children are gaining a profound understanding of what life is like in other countries and how it varies and yet, at times, is strikingly similar to life in Australia."
Alison is a firm believer that there is no classroom quite as engaging as one's own living room filled with international students.
It’s a place where children can organically learn the essence of being culturally inclusive and respectful of differences.
"Living with students from different cultures gives my children an early lesson in global citizenship," she says.
As part of the UOW College staff, Alison finds herself perfectly positioned to cater to the needs of the College Homestay program.
Work and Homestay: A Balanced Life
She has crafted a routine that lets her manage her work responsibilities while ensuring her international students get to and from the College easily.
"There's no expectation on families to be tour guides," Alison explains.
"The program has that covered. Our role is to provide a safe, welcoming environment, a home away from home."
The international students aren't just guests within Alison's home – they are part of the family.
They share meals, stories, and everyday routines, enriching the family's life with their unique perspectives - even food has become a cultural exchange.
The students introduced Alison's children to Bubble Tea, a delicacy unknown to them until then.
In return, Alison’s kids introduced them to Chicko’s, a local delight that Alison's 9-year-old son confidently declares as a "Wollongong must."
With more five-to-ten-night study tour groups expected in the latter half of the year, this is the perfect taster for families considering joining the program.
Growing the Homestay Community
Alison believes that the experience of hosting international students opens a window to the world right in your own home, fostering global awareness, and promoting a deep-seated understanding of cultural diversity.
"The UOW College Homestay program has expanded our world. We've journeyed through cultures, traditions, and life experiences without ever stepping out of our front door.
We've made connections with people from different parts of the globe, enriching our lives in the process."
Through the Homestay program, Alison and her family are not just offering international students a place to stay; they are embracing diverse cultures, forging global friendships, and nurturing a space where learning is a constant process.
They are, in every sense, the embodiment of the UOW Homestay spirit, a spirit that says, "home is not just a place, it’s a feeling that transcends borders and celebrates unity in diversity."
Learn more about how you can get involved with the UOW College Homestay program here.