Global Mates Program

AU

This award-winning program allows participants to develop leadership skills and form long-term friendships, and it is often described as one of the most memorable highlights of student life by our current and past team members.

Both international and domestic students can be Global Mates.

A Global Mate (GM) is a current student who volunteers their time to help new international students settle into life in Adelaide and Adelaide University. Both international and domestic students can be Global Mates.

The GM role plays an important part in the delivery of ISS social programs. GMs are experts in creating world-class, inclusive experiences at our events from Orientation to regional excursions. They are responsible for engaging and connecting with students, sharing top-quality campus insider tips, and speaking authentically about the university community, the student experience, and their cultural identity.

Being a Global Mate is a super fun and rewarding experience. You get to meet people from all over the world, learn from different cultures, and have your input in amazing events and activities! Plus, every year, the team becomes a family. But it is important to remember that, while this is an unpaid position, it is an introduction to working in a higher education institution. Accordingly, a Global Mate is expected to act professionally, honestly, and respectfully while fulfilling their responsibilities.

  • Global Mates receive free training on leadership, soft-skills and communication, event and risk management, teamwork, and cultural competency.
  • As student leaders, GMs are regularly offered free professional development programs, which enhance employability and look great on their CV and LinkedIn.
  • Global Mates are often the first to be invited to participate in volunteer and paid projects across the University, including collaborations with Marketing, Student Health and Wellbeing, and other University areas.
  • Outstanding Global Mates will receive excellent recommendations for work applications (upon their request), and can be considered for casual employment within the ISS team.

  • By the time Global Mates commence in their role, they must:
  • have completed at least one study period at the University
  • have achieved satisfactory academic results (i.e., not be failing any courses)
  • be enrolled in at least two courses in each study period
  • have at least two study periods remaining (i.e., two semesters), so they can be a GM for a full academic calendar year and
  • have completed their compulsory training (see next question).

GMs receive a comprehensive and compulsory induction and training program to prepare them for Orientation and the academic year:

  • Candidates who cannot attend induction and training or are unavailable during Orientation may not remain in the program
  • At the start of the academic year, new team members will be provided with an official GM t-shirt to wear at all summer events. Then, based on their performance, they will also receive a GM winter jacket during mid-year training.

GMs are expected to volunteer in:

  • at least two full days during International Student Welcome in Semester 1 and 2
  • 75% of weekly CommuniTeas each semester, including planning, set up and clean up
  • one larger cultural event in Semester 1 and Semester 2 (e.g., Eid, Mid-Autumn Festival, Diwali celebrations)
  • a minimum of three excursions in the ISS Discover Adelaide program

Global Mates are, at times, asked to take part in student panels during Orientation events, and in University committees, consultation sessions for student voice and feedback about specific issues and trends.

Importantly, Global Mates are expected to maintain continuous communication with the Program Coordinator and within the team via the Global Mates communication channels, and to acknowledge and respond to calls to support activities/events within a timely manner (i.e., within 48 hours).

Student experience

Global Mates are expected to:

  • interact with student participants to ensure a great experience in a manner that values student culture and diversity
  • assess student’ needs to provide customised, effective solutions, referrals and support
  • be present and proactive at events by engaging with students and encouraging them to network receive feedback and partner with the GM Coordinator to take appropriate action when facing issues.

Working with others

As member of a high functioning team, Global Mates should:

  • contribute to a respectful and inclusive team environment, by welcoming and celebrating differences to ensure a supportive and engaging experience for all pod members, Global Mates and student participants
  • establish supportive and productive relationships with all Global Mates
  • collaborate with Global Mates to support ISS operations and ensure optimal student experience.

Operations

Key operational responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • performing tasks in accordance with applicable policies, procedures, and laws or regulations, including but not limited to the Volunteer Handbook, privacy policy, ESOS regulations
  • leading tours and other ISS activities to the highest standards, setting up and packing up events efficiently
  • understanding and adhering to people safety policies and procedures to maintain a safe work environment, taking initiative in dealing with operational challenges
  • using technology to support online activities, social media engagement, and provide positive student experiences.

  • Inclusion & Diversity: Creates/supports an inclusive environment that values/celebrates differences.  
    Integrity/Honesty: Behaves in an honest, fair, and ethical manner.
  • Student participant experience: Enjoys working and connecting with, understanding, and helping other students.
  • Personal Responsibility: Accepts responsibility/accountability for actions.
  • Self-Awareness: Aware of how words or actions may be perceived by or affect others.
  • Collaboration and Teamwork: Works productively with others to achieve goals; seeks diverse perspectives.
  • Enthusiasm: Enthusiastic about their role, looking for ways to make volunteer shifts fun and engaging.

The profiles of our current International Peer Mentors are coming soon

Applications for the 2026 program are now closed. Stay tuned for updates on 2027 applications, which will be shared in the ISS Newsletter during Semester 2.

If you have any questions about the program, please email International Student Support.