When I arrived at QUT International College (QUTIC) orientation day, QUTIC student mentors gave me a warm welcome making me feel less nervous. This is a reason why I joined the QUTIC Mentor Program – to help others. This is a volunteer role that supports fellow QUTIC students. The benefits I gain from this role are free workshops on several topics, such as cross-cultural communication, problem-solving, leadership, self-awareness, and teamwork. Moreover, I will get a certificate, reference, and credit towards QUT Leadership programs in the faculty.
After four days of training during holidays at P block, we had an opportunity to attend a two-day mentor excursion at Binna Burra Lodge. The relaxed atmosphere provided a sense of peace which enhanced our communication. Our schedule included activities, such as training for orientation, leadership activities, and also some exciting outdoor activities. Binna Burra offers many adventure activities, such as archery, flying fox, and spotlight walk at night. Flying through the rainforest on a flying fox was an awesome experience, as it was at the same height as the trees with fresh air and bird view of this sub-tropical rainforests. After having delicious dinner, we joined the spotlight walk with a guide who showed us some wildlife around the campsite.
The lodge had a wooden design and a great view. This is a great place for summer vacation, and I would recommend it to families and couples for short getaways. I found a 1933s magazine in this heritage listed lodge and it made me curious about all the things that have changed throughout the years. This trip taught us all the skills we needed to be good mentors to our peers for the rest of the semesters.
Mentor training at the Binna Burra Lodge became one of my most memorable study abroad experiences here in Australia. It was great to be able to visit this hinterland resort surrounded by natural wilderness, as part of a QUTIC student program. We left without any regrets and with many new long-lasting friendships.
