ERIC Number: ED253177
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1984
Pages: 7
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Friendship with an International Student: A Guide for New American Host Families.
National Association for Foreign Student Affairs, Washington, DC.
Advice for American families who host a foreign student is offered, with attention to culture shock, the first visit, stages of the student's adjustment, and mealtimes. It is suggested that both the host and foreign student can learn from the other. At first, the host family should speak slowly and clearly and be careful to avoid talking loud, since increased volume does not guarantee clarity. Learning about the student's background and providing information about the features of the U.S. locale are important. Stages of adjustment for the foreign student may include arrival fascination, culture shock, adjustment/isolation, adjustment/acceptance, and return anxiety. A relaxed, unhurried meal around the family table can promote getting acquainted. Family customs should be maintained, and the student should be served after a family member to provide an opportunity for the newcomer to observe how much to take from an array of strange items. In some countries, alcoholic beverages are unacceptable, and in many, milk is uncommon. A frank discussion of differing perceptions of friendship may be helpful for both students and families. The foreign student advisor should be contacted when the student encounters difficulties in the following areas: employment restrictions, immigration and visa problems, and academic problems. (SW)
Publication Type: Guides - Non-Classroom
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Community; Parents
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: National Association for Foreign Student Affairs, Washington, DC.
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A