Another aspect of international service which we undertake is acting as Counsellors for foreign students who come to the UK to follow post-graduate studies under the Ambassadorial Scholars programme. This gives students a chance to get to study for a masters qualification whilst taking part in local Rotary activities and getting to know more about life in the UK through their links with their host counsellor and family. The support they receive in this way helps them to settle more quickly into life in a foreign country as well as broadening their understanding of the British way of life.
With Oxford University being a prime target for overseas post-graduate students, there are numerous opportunities to undertake this rewarding task and join the scholars in wide range of activities. At Abingdon Vesper our members have acted as counsellors to many students including Holger from Germany, Natsuno from Japan, and Betsy, Justin and Liana from the USA. This year we are hosting Luigi from Northern Italy who is studying law at St Hugh's College.