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Here are some general guidelines that will help students in their adjustment. First of all, keep a sense of humor. There are many things that are funny five or ten minutes, an hour, or a day later. Try not to take yourself or those around you that may be causing "difficulties" too seriously. Everything that happens is not a moral issue, and is not an issue of world-shattering importance. It may be minor, very minor, in its proper perspective. If it is addressed as such, it will not become an incident. However, if people become volatile and defensive, things that are virtually minuscule will get blown all out of proportion.
Another helpful guideline is that people who succeed are the ones who have persistence, and have kept on trying. Don't give up. No one is totally alone. There are other American and Canadian friends that can help sort out dilemmas. Discuss whether what is happening is important or not. Does it really need to be addressed? How can someone respond to it in a positive way?
Generally, European people are not boisterous. One way to avoid becoming the object of undue criticism is to avoid being a boisterous, center-of-attention type person on the international campus--and in any setting abroad. Being calm and cool is the European way. Chill out is a good motto for self-discipline.
If things aren't going well, make good things happen. Make the most of every opportunity. The summer goes by very fast. Don't be one of the people who says, "I wish I had started reaching out to other people sooner." If things are not going well, find someone to talk to--a teacher, another ACA member, or the international campus director of the ACA program. Maintain a positive focus that will bring balance to other people who are also abroad.
Another rule of thumb is to assume the best about people unless repeated evidence points to the contrary. In a situation where communication is obstructed by people's inabilities to express themselves well or understand what others are saying, misunderstandings can occur quite easily. Sometimes misunderstandings may occur because ACA students do not speak or comprehend well what is being communicated in the host language. Unfortunately, they get very inappropriate ideas about host campus personnel. As a result, they may see the hosts as severe and uncaring rather than matter of fact and professional. Assume that others have international students' best interest in mind and are not "out to get" foreigners.
Expect that the food will be quite different on international campuses. There may even be restrictions in the amount of certain food items that may be eaten at any one meal. The diet tends to be simple and nutritious, and initially American or Canadian tongues and taste buds may not be attuned to its textures or tastes. Some students even need antacids in their adjustment periods, and for some students these adjustments take a long time. Back to Summer Programs |
