Getting to know the residents - Jonathan Ribot

Jonathan Ribot

Please provide a brief description of yourself (age, nationality, hobbies, etc...)

I come from Mauritus, a small Island in the Indian Ocean. I am 23 years old. I came to International House in 2007 and I won't be leaving until I have finished my course at Sydney Uni. I enjoy a good night out clubbing in Sydney, quality coffee accompanied by a friend. I practice the martial arts and a good movie per week is a bare minimum. I also really enjoy going to see a good local or international band playing in a Sydney venue.

What are you studying and why did you choose the University of Sydney?

I am studying a Bachelors of Economics, majoring in Accounting and Economics. My Economics focus is on International Economics and Trade. Sydney Uni, besides being a prestigious University that ranks highly, its focus on student involvement is second to none in Australia and the region. Our Union at Sydney Uni is the only one in Australia that is exclusively governed by students.

What made you choose International House?

International House offered every aspect of college life that I was looking for and at the same time itoffered its residents a level of freedom that I needed tofully enjoy University life. You can have a fully involved lifestyle with the community and at the same time be your own boss and follow your own agenda asyou please. Besides, it looked like the most open-minded college and the most demographically interesting one on campus.

What aspect of life at International house do you enjoy most?

The community that is present here is a mature resident body that is willing to learn, share and discuss cultures, issues and cross-cultural debates that affect our modern era. Anyone who has been accepted here has something to contribute and it is thus a snapshot of society and its variety of colours, beliefs, and associated ambiguous establishment rules.

In what way have you been involved with the International House Members Association (IHMA) and how has this enhanced your university experience?

I have been a member of the IHMA team from my first semester here as a Sports Coordinator. Then I was elected as Treasurer and subsequently as Chairperson. Besides my studies here, it has been my favourite and most enriching experience at Sydney Uni. It has taught me skillssuch aspublic speaking, management, compromise and coordination of tasks. It is a fabulous experience and my education would have been lacking had I not taken up those challenges and positions during my student life.

My favourite event is the International House Food Fair. You can cook to show off your culinary skills and at the same time taste every cuisine that is present in the House. Every resident is willing to prepare their best meals to represent their country in the best possible manner, and all that is only to add to our cross-cultural experience here in the House. It is an event of good taste, palate-pleasing experiences and well cooked conversations. It's all about the food!

Contact: International House