New Students
As a new international student you will be faced with a multitude of changes, decisions and adjustments. Perhaps the most exciting and sometimes frustrating of these will be your ongoing adjustment to life in the United States.
Each day you will be learning many things both inside and outside the classroom. You may learn how people of another culture view the world and their lives. There is value in experiencing and understanding a way of life different from your own. You may even learn things about your own culture that you never thought about before.
As you adjust to your new life in the United States remember that the best way to find out about something you do not understand is to ask questions. You should feel free to ask questions, even if the questions seem trivial or you think that your English is not good enough. People are generally helpful, but they can’t guess what you need to know. So ask questions!
Things You Can do to Make the Transition From Angola to the United States Easier
- Evaluate your expectations. If you find yourself being confused or disappointed about something, ask your self: What did I expect? Were my expectations reasonable?
- Keep an open mind. Try to understand that Americans are acting according to their cultural values. Avoid evaluating their behaviors by the standards of your country.
- Learn from the experience. You are here to explore a new way of life. You do not have to change your own values, but you should respect those of other people.
- Meet regularly with your International Student Advisor. When you have questions or need to speak with someone who will try to help you as you adjust to your new academic environment, make an appointment with an advisor at the International Studies Office.
- Join an International Organization. There are various organizations on university campuses where international students come together. You can meet students from every part of the world. You can be a resource for each other in coping with life in a new culture.
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