Accommodating Your Culture At A Us University

Americans are well-known for being open to learning about other cultures. When you’re selecting a university overseas, however, you’ll have to make sure the US university you pick does have some cultural elements that will make you feel at home. This covers areas that you may not have thought of. For instance, if you’ve been eating a vegetarian diet your whole life, you’ll want to make sure that the food service at the university you pick can accommodate that. These simple things end up meaning a lot and, if you pay attention to them, homesickness will be much less of a problem.

Fortunately, US students are usually very accustomed to having friends, and even family, from other nations and cultures. The “melting pot” metaphor was outdated long ago and, today, most universities celebrate having students from other nations on their campuses and most of what you’ll get from your fellow students will be curiosity and interest about your culture and your home nation. Still, you’ll want to make sure that the university you pick does have facilities that can suit your needs.

Language can be a big problem for foreign students. Even if the university you pick doesn’t have any staff members that speak your first language, you’ll find that some universities are better at accommodating language barriers than others. You’ll also need to make sure that they can help you with any immigration problems or other issues that may arise during your study at the university. Some universities have departments and faculty who are experts in this area and who can offer a lot of assistance if you run into problems. Universities that are experienced in helping foreign students can oftentimes offer help with scholarships and other funding issues, as well, which is vital to getting the most out of your education.

International students bring a lot to the US, but there are plenty of universities that can give them something in return. Aside from an education, a good university that is experienced in dealing with foreign students can help you to find the resources you need when you need them and to make sure that you don’t feel like you’re alone with no one to relate to. The bigger universities aren’t always the best choices, in this regard. Sometimes the smaller universities offer a more personal experience and are easier places to meet friends and find helpful staff.

By: Dennis Dunham PhD

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Dennis Dunham, PhD is the Executive Director of International Services at the University of Central Oklahoma. He is credited with helping over 16,000 international students come to the United States. Dr. Dunham has received many awards in the field of international education. Dr. Dunham holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Technology and Masters of TESOL. Dr. Dunham, a former Peace Corps Volunteer, speaks Korean and French. Visit the UCO International Office to learn more about studying abroad in the USA at www.uco.edu/ioffice.