There is so much out there ...
Have you ever thought about studying abroad? Well, I have and there is not a single day that I regret it. Believe me, it is a wonderful experience. You gain exposure to foreign cultures and customs, broaden your outlook, make new friends and open doors to new and exciting opportunities. But I also understand that it is a difficult step to take. The benefits of global citizenship often dawn on us first after we have stepped out of our comfort zone and ventured into foreign lands. I will be happy to nurture your youthful curiosity and direct you to the numerous possibilities to acquire a global learning experience. Stop by at my office if the thought of spending a semester abroad crosses your mind. Maybe we can find a way to accomplish it.
The number of international students in our department is growing. I always empathized with students arriving to a new land, culture and environment – their overwhelming feeling of confusion, loneliness and cultural awkwardness. The needs of international students go beyond those of the average domestic student: they are communicating in a language which often isn’t their mother tongue and are living in an environment which is strange to them; they have none of the support they are used to from family and friends. We need to make an extra effort to ease the transition for them. No one is better positioned to help them than fellow students. Remember, maybe one day you will be facing a similar situation in a foreign land. A helping hand, encouragement and a smile are priceless