ABSTRACT
This chapter draws on two pieces of research with Australian higher education students to investigate their responses to studying in an international environment. It considers their experiences and the patterns of social connections that arise. It then goes on to reflect on the conditions required to build connections with those unlike ourselves in an environment in which social risk is prevalent. Finally, the chapter concludes with a consideration of the key elements that comprise a cosmopolitan education. Beyond acknowledging and valuing diversity, students need to be guided to recognise their positioning in particular contexts, and the ways in which it varies over space and time. As this chapter shows, none of these are something that happens automatically or by osmosis. Openness allows students to be able to access influences from around the world and to engage with them with respect and curiosity, unpacking their deep-rooted beliefs and examining them with fresh eyes.
