Cultural Encounters:
From the Sand to the Snow

May 30, 2006

My 1st day in the Orientation Staff

Today was my first day in the Summer Orientation Staff. I really feel like a part of the group. I will be honest, in the beginning I was afraid of not getting along with the other students. Being the only international student in the group put some pressure on me for the fact that I did not know how receptive they would be. Many of my friends are International students because we go through the same process; culture shock, homesickness, language barriers and our situation in this country brings us closer finding support and family at the same time. I thought many times about how to approach or initiate a conversation with an American, and really becoming friends. I think a very good way of accomplishing this is to live in the residence halls and be involved in different organizations. I really believe that working this summer with Orientation will give me more opportunities to make friends and understand a bit more about American Culture.