MATC Matters

MATC and the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) are currently inviting applications from ICISP institutions to serve as an Academic Escort in Sydney, Australia, from June 29 - July 29, 2007. MATC faculty and staff are encouraged to apply. This program is coordinated by MATC and through the ICISP consortium is available to students at more than 35 colleges in the regional area.

Faculty Academic Escort Opportunity in Sydney, Australia

Eligible faculty and staff are invited to apply for the opportunity to accompany a group of 15-30 students as an Academic Escort on an exciting academic exploration of Australian culture and history based in Sydney, Australia. The program will take place from June 29 - July 29, 2007. All airfare, lodging and most meal expenses for the duration of the program are provided.

Responsibilities:
This program is offer in conjunction with Macquarie University and their International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS) campus. All instruction and management of the program will be provided by Macquarie University faculty and staff. The role of the Academic Escort is to assist with the day-to-day activities of the program and provide support for student participants. Responsibilities include:

1. Serving as the liaison between student participants and staff at Macquarie University’s International Education Office and ICMS staff;
2. Accompanying students on all orientations, field trips, and learning activities;
3. Providing assistance with program logistics and coordination in conjunction with Macquarie University staff.
4. Providing advising, guidance, and support for student participants
5. Providing assessment of program quality, content, and health and safety to MATC.
6. Attendance at pre-trip orientation in Madison, WI.
7. After participation in the experience, assist in program recruitment, including presentations, slide shows or responding to student and faculty interest inquiries.

Eligibility:
Faculty and staff must be from an ICISP (Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs) Member Institution (this includes affiliate member schools in Wisconsin and Indiana). Applications are especially welcome from academic faculty in history or other social sciences or experience leading student groups abroad.

Desired Qualifications:

1. Interest in studying and learning about Australia
2. Good interpersonal relations with students and colleagues
3. Counseling or skills in conflict management or group dynamics
4. Strong intercultural communication skills
5. Flexibility and ability to adapt to different cultural settings
6. Energy and physical fitness to participate in all events with enthusiasm (including hiking, walking and potential for long hours)

Compensation:
Neither Madison Area Technical College nor the ICISP Consortium offer any stipend or direct payment related to this position. Individual member colleges, however, may choose to offer faculty or staff remuneration for their participation in this program.

MATC will purchase airfare for the participating Academic Escort. Macquarie University/ICMS will provide lodging, meals and costs associated with program field trips as included for student participants (see student program information for details). Lodging will be provided in a private apartment on the ICMS campus.

Selection Process:
A selection committee including ICISP representatives and MATC staff will review all applications and recommend up to three for personal or phone interviews. Finalists will be interviewed and a selection made by a team consisting of MATC staff and an ICISP representative.

Out-of Pocket Expenses

1. All meals not provided in the formal program
2. Transportation to and from the pre-departure orientation in Madison.
3. Transportation to and from O’Hare Airport
4. Purchase of international health insurance
5. Fees associated with acquiring a current passport
6. Other personal expenses

Timeline:
Applications must be received in the MATC International Education Office by March 16, 2007. Interviews will be scheduled the following week with a target date for final selection by March 30, 2007.

Applications should be sent to:
Geoff Bradshaw, Ph.D.
International Education Coordinator
(608) 246-6165