The international student section of the Otago University is rapidly increasing, resulting in growing awareness of the diversity around campus, and a growing global profile for Otago, writes Emily Menkes.
Since arriving in Dunedin in 2001, Rafat Hamoh has witnessed a continual increase both in the international student population, and in outside interest in their activities.
Now, in his role as Saudi Student Representative, the masters student wants to help capitalise on this.
"We want to reach all of Dunedin, it doesn't have to focus just on students," he explained.
This year has seen the second anniversary of the International Students' Council which has strengthened the profile of the international student community.
The just-passed International Month provided a great chance to further this work.
"We try to put across the same message each year, but with new themes to keep the message fresh."
"It lets people be proud of their culture and gives other people an opportunity to experience their culture. It's not just about how they dress."
Hannah Lemon, a first-year international film student from Japan, was involved with many of the events in the month.
She believes promotion is extremely important.
"Everywhere is getting more international, we have to keep up."
Before Rafat came here, the only thing he knew when someone mentioned New Zealand was the dairy brand ‘Anchor'.
This has changed since his move to Dunedin in 2001. "It is a second home to me now."
The medical laboratory science student believes students are attracted to ‘cheap Dunedin'.
"When you hear about New Zealand [and its universities], you hear about Otago or Auckland."
Otago is chosen over Auckland because it is easier for transport, it has a central, ever-expanding campus.
Hannah has had a similar experience, retracting from her original view of a isolated country.
"I got here and I realised how many other cultures were around. I can make friends from anywhere in the world, here in Dunedin."
Both students acknowledge the obstacles of getting locals, or the less open-minded students involved, but are not put off by this.
Next year, OUSA International Month hopes to includes more countries with a bigger focus on the minorities.
"They don't have to travel all the way there to find out what it's like."
In the last decade, Rafat says that New Zealand has become really well-known to Saudi Arabia - they see it as a place of safety, quiet, a good place to bring up children.
He advised anyone from his native land to come here - "if you can get used to the cold."