Study Overseas

1. What happens when I get there?

One of the first things you will do when you arrive at your university is attend Orientation Week. This is a programme of events organised by the international office of your college or university with the aim of helping international students settle into campus life before the academic semester begins and all the other American students arrive.

Most US universities have mandatory orientation programmes for international students. This is not only to get you to make friends and socialise before classes start, but also to explain the rules and regulations relating to your studies. All of your practical questions will be answered relating to the requirements of your visa, how to register for classes, using the university health centre and the practicalities of living on campus.

Orientation Week is a gentle introduction to university life in America. Not only will the administrative side of things be taken care of, but also there will be plenty of opportunities to meet with religious groups and various student clubs through social events that are organised by university staff. Remember that everybody is in the same situation as you so don't be shy, get stuck in and make the most of Orientation Week.

2. Will there be an organisation devoted to international students?

Yes! The exact title of this organisation may vary between universities and colleges but it will be called something like the 'International Office' or 'Office of International Students'. The international office is your first port of call for matters that pertain particularly to international students such as working abroad, travelling, communication, cultural adjustment, visa regulations, language tests, admissions and much more. Arguably the most important function of the international office is to ensure that the university facilitates the full enhancement of academic, cultural, and social pursuits of international students and to create a strong voice for international students to speak out about their issues. The international office provides a channel for international students to reach out and be active in the university so you can receive a rewarding and enjoyable university education.

3. How do I cope with cultural differences?

It's an inevitable part of being an international student that you will have to cope with some degree of cultural shock. Settling into new surroundings can present an internal struggle as you try to keep true to your own culture. Fortunately American universities and colleges are well rehearsed in the experiences of international students and will be at hand to help you with any problems that you may face.

It is useful to realise that often the reactions and perceptions of others towards you - and you towards them - are not personal evaluations but are based on a clash of cultural values. The more skilled you become in recognising how and when cultural values and behaviours are likely to come in conflict, the easier it becomes to make adjustments that can help you avoid serious difficulties.

4. Should I approach American students?

Definitely! One of the great things about international students being part of the student body is the mutual learning and understanding that build bridges between cultures. Whether you are an international or domestic student, a major part of university life is to step outside your comfort zone and make a point of interacting. The easiest thing for international students to do when arriving at university is to clump together. However, by doing this you are limiting your learning experience significantly.

5. Will I encounter a language barrier?

If English is not your native language then you will have completed an English language proficiency test to gain admission to an American university. This means that your English language ability is good enough to study in an English-speaking environment. Although you may lack confidence in your English skills in the social arena, don't let this put you off communicating with students whose native tongue is English. The best way to learn a language is by immersing yourself in the culture which speaks it. You will find that your vocabulary grows everyday, as will your confidence in applying what you have learnt. By the time you return to your home country, your English skills will be second to none.

6. Who can I talk to if I'm having problems?

It's perfectly normal for there to be times at university when things get a bit much and you need to talk to someone. Settling into university can be hard, especially if you are adjusting to a new culture. However, there are people who can help! Whatever the problem, there are trained professionals you can go to in the strictest confidence. Every university or college will have a counselling service with staff that are experienced in dealing with problems that students can encounter. No matter how small a problem you think it is, don't let it get in the way of your studies and experience.

7. Can I practice my religion freely at an American university?

The First Amendment guarantees the free exercise of religion in America and prohibits the United States government from infringing upon the freedom of religion.

America is one of, if not the, most religiously diverse country in the world. Wide varieties of religious traditions can be found in any large American city as well as in smaller towns that host a college or university. There is a single small section of Washington, D.C. that boasts a Cambodian Buddhist temple, a Muslim Community Centre, a Ukrainian Orthodox Church, a Gujarati Hindu temple, a Jain temple, and many Roman Catholic and Protestant churches. Even in cities like Minneapolis where 34% of the people are Lutheran, there exists a thriving East Asian population of 80,000 people that has established Islamic Centres, Baha'i communities, and Hindu and Jain temples.

The citizens of the United States take religious freedom very seriously. Americans also take the religious freedom of other people very seriously. As an international student, your right to practice your religion cannot be revoked.

Every university and college will have active faith groups, which give you the opportunity both to practice your religion and meet new, like-minded people. Facilities will be available for worship.

8. Are there clubs or societies I can join?

The answer is, yes, many! There are student clubs and societies for almost every interest and purpose, from the academic to the purely social. Clubs are an excellent way to meet people who share your interests, to make friends, to learn new things, and to have fun. Usually you can get a list of campus clubs and organisations from the International Office or from your university's website. You will probably encounter representatives from all clubs and societies in your orientation week but if you missed them, attend a meeting and see if the club is for you.

Where there is a large international student population, there will undoubtedly be an international club that represents your home country. These are student-run organisations that put on events, hold discussions, encourage diversity and bring students together from that country and anyone interested in the culture. These groups can provide excellent support to new international students make you feel like you're at home away from home.

9. What if I can't find a society I want to join?

Start your own! If you think there is a gap that needs filling in the clubs and societies on offer at your university then why not create one? All you need to do is find a group of people who want to be part of your new society and seek out the relevant person to ask if your club can be registered. Starting your own society is a great way to contribute to campus life and will show potential employers that you are a proactive and responsible person.

10. Can I take part in college sports?

Almost all colleges and universities have intercollegiate football, baseball, basketball, swimming, and other teams that compete with teams from other schools. These teams often compete at a very high level and attract a large crowd of student supporters and other fans.

Even if you are unfamiliar with U.S. sports, you should attend at least one sporting event. It is a lot of fun simply to be part of the crowd. Ask someone to explain the action to you. The spirit and excitement of the games are a large part of campus life.

Most colleges and universities also offer intramural sporting teams or competitions, where all teams are made up of your fellow students. Intramural sports are usually at a less competitive level than the intercollegiate teams and are often open to anyone with an interest in the sport. This can be a great way to meet people, to exercise, and to help reduce the stress of your studies.