Catering the Needs of Gen Y from Overseas in Australian University

Jasmine Moli YANG,

DBR Candidate, CQUniversity Australia

18 Bonython St, Windsor, QLD 4030
Email: m.yang@cqu.edu.au

Presenter: Jasmine Moli Yang

Candidate, Doctor of Business Research

CQ University Australia

MBA & MEd (James Cook University), Grad Cert Tertiary Teaching (JCU)

She is a candidate for Doctor of Business Research in CQ University Australia. Her research
focus is on the decision making process of Chinese students studying in Australia. She holds
Masters of Business Administration and Masters of Education awarded by James Cook
University.

Prior to embarking on her doctoral research, she worked as Coordinator Offshore Agents in
CQU International between 2003 and 2006, which brought her to numerous International
Education Expos held in Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and South East Asia.

She has published several articles on high education in China and Australia.

These research and field trips have equipped her with good understanding of China tertiary
education and its correlation with Australia tertiary sector.

Abstract

This paper focuses on the particular cultural diversity issues experienced by Gen Y from
overseas, studying in Australian universities. The authors interviewed 8 international students
from Gen Y group on their study experience and examined the existing support mechanism
provided by universities in Australia. This research also compared Gen Y’s specific needs and
the general supply of study support provided by universities.

The research found there is imbalance between needs and supply. Gen Y either is unaware of
such old fashioned support, or reluctant to access the services in the way prescribed by the
university;

Gen Y felt the support provided is unattractive or unappealing for them to access; the delivery
method of such support does not match what Gen Y preferred.

The authors recommend: More up to date platform for communication between the University
staff and Gen Ys; More consultation with Gen Y and draw their input in the process of design
and delivering of such support; University is to upgrade facilities to accommodate the needs of
Gen Y and to be perceived as COOL for Gen Y communication styles.

Keywords: Cultural Diversity, Gen Y, International Students, Study Needs