GLOBAL GAZETTE 2010-2011 Global Undergraduate Exchange Program East Asia & the Pacific and the Western Hemisphere
Fall Into American Traditions September 2010
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Welcome
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First Impressions
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New Items
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Transition into
On behalf of the entire UGRAD team I would like to say how thrilled I am for you all be part of this experience. Fall is a very exciting time for us here at World Learning. While we are welcoming a new group of students to the US for the forthcoming semester, we are also transitioning students who spent the summer in English language training to their academic coursework. Our team is working around the clock to ensure each and every one of you is happy, healthy, and taking full advantage of your time in the US. Fall in the US is full of famous traditions, starting with college and professional (American) football. It is possible that nothing is considered more “American” than watching your favorite team play their rival, bonding with your fellow supporters and eating traditional American food such as hot dogs, hamburgers, potato chips, and brownies. For schools that have football teams, Homecoming (usually in September or October) is the weekend-long event that welcomes back alumni and supporters to watch a football game, participate in events around campus, and meet new students. This event is not to be missed! Football is not the only sports tradition that takes place in the fall. Fans of baseball can follow teams into the playoffs and World Series, held in
October. Later in the season, you will get to experience an American Halloween. Celebrated every year on October 31, it marks the day when children dressed in costumes go “trick-or-treating” from house to house to collect candy. Many adults celebrate by showing off their costumes at parties with friends. Thanksgiving, the fourth Thursday in November, is the day that Americans give thanks by celebrating and preparing a large meal of traditional foods with family and friends. Many of you can probably look forward to the age old tradition of bonfires where people gather around a large fire pit, cook all kinds of food, tell stories and roast s’mores. Don’t know what a s’more is? The last page of this newsletter has a simple recipe for them. I can’t want to hear about your experiences this semester as we dive headfirst into all that America has to offer.
Pamela Lowenstein Editor, Global Gazette World Learning
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Academics / Student Work Reminders & Idioms Color Your Language
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Connecting names and faces, Global UGRAD staff. Left to Right: Melissa Oppenheimer, Jessica Mead, Jodie Klein, Bethany Gilchrist, Amy Fisher, and Pamela Lowenstein
September 2010
Cultural Connection
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FIRST IMPRESSIONS From current Global UGRAD students
GREETINGS The biggest thing that surprised me is that the people here are extremely friendly. They always say "Hello" or "Have a good day" even thought I do not know them. In my country, we rarely say hello to anyone who we do not know. Abdi Rahmat Syam, Indonesia, Humboldt State University TRAFFIC PATTERNS The people here are very friendly. The environment is quite good. Although there are lots of cars here, I have never seen a traffic jam. When I cross a road, drivers will stop and let me go first. In China, I don’t receive this kind of treatment when I cross the street. The buildings here are very special and are all designed differently from one another. In my hometown, the buildings all look almost the same. Fudi (Sophia) Kong, China, Shenandoah University STRETCHING YOUR LANGUAGE When I arrived at the University of Minnesota the hardest change for me to adapt to was the language. I always had to think in English, speak in English, and everything I had to do was in English. For example, when I was talking to someone I had to listen in English, translate it in my mind and then answer in English. That process was really slow and tedious for me because, until then, I spent my entire life speaking Creole and French. Merlande Pierre, Haiti, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities CHANGING STEREOTYPES I used to have the wrong idea about Americans. I thought that they were kind of rude or arrogant who didn’t want to talk much, but I found out that they are very helpful.
I love being here so much and I believe there will be more and more to investigate and to experience. Visit Chin, Cambodia, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire INDEPENDENT PEOPLE One of my biggest surprises about American culture is that American students are very independent. They live alone on the university campus
and they are open-minded people. In my country people are very religious; students rarely live alone and even if they come to the capital in order to study at a university they usually live with or close to their relatives. Tania Hernandez, Nicaragua, University of Utah ORDER AND CLEANLINESS The discipline Americans have in public places is the biggest surprise I've had so far. Once, when I was walking off the metro train and heading to the escalator, everyone stayed on the right side to allow those who are in a hurry to pass through the left side. Also, when Americans are done eating in dining areas, they take their plates with them and put them in designated areas. These instances are so striking that they have taught me two American values this early on: order and cleanliness. Ryan Louie Madrid, Philippines, American University GETTING ASSISTANCE Being visually impaired, I had a truckload of concerns before leaving
Manila. However, I found that World Learning and the University of Southern Indiana had everything arranged for my convenience. So far, everything has been pleasantly different. The staff at university services are open to my needs and are always pleasant to speak with. This is something that eases things a bit because it reminds me of how people are in my home university. The major difference is how friendly people at USI are in terms of resources and other services for students with special needs. Although my school back home in Manila is sometimes accommodating, the resources that are needed are not available. The facilities here are just amazing! Erick Marco Ramos, Philippines, University of Southern Indiana WELL ORGANIZED One of the things that surprised me so much was the organization. In the US you can't do whatever you want, and you have to follow rules. If you break the rules you are really going to get in trouble. That is so great and because of this the country is pretty well organized. Letty De Peña, Dominican Republic, University of Utah COMMON COURTESIES I have learned that American people are very punctual, responsible, and caring toward others. It is unacceptable here if we miss an appointment without prior notice. People here do their best in their jobs, and are present, kind and polite when we go to their offices to ask for help or information about something. Thavisack Litsana, Laos, Florida Gulf Coast University
September 2010
Just Arrived World Learning is pleased to announce the launch of the “Global UGRAD EAP/WHA” Community page on the U.S. Department of State Alumni website. This community is specifically designed for UGRAD students and alumni. Every student or former student is encouraged to participate. Q: What can I do on this new site to help me advance my studies or career? A: A lot! You can search jobs, scholarship opportunities, grant announcements, photo galleries and information about alumni events. World Learning will update the content often so check the site regularly.
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STATE ALUMNI Announcing the new professional networking tool for all UGRAD alumni & current students
Q: Will I have access to databases offered by the State Department? A: Yes! In fact you will have access to over 20,000 international magazines, newspapers, and academic articles. Q: How do I join? A: Joining is easy. Just log into the State Alumni website: https:// alumni.state.gov, click on “join now” and follow the steps to load your profile information. Your account will be approved in about 5 days. Once your account has been activated you will receive an email prompting you to finish your profile, connect with fellow alumni and browse the Global UGRAD EAP/WHA Community.
EXPERIENCE AMERICA: UGRAD POST ? ?
Are you ready to embark upon a semester-long photo challenge that will jump start your immersion into American culture? Do you have what it takes to compete against your fellow UGRADers in the largest contest that World Learning has ever seen? If so, keep reading!
As most of you have already heard, Experience America: UGRAD Post begins this month with five possible photo essay opportunities posted monthly on Ning. To submit your photo and short essay you must follow these instructions: Public transportation in Washington, DC consists of either the subway or buses. Almost everyone at World Learning takes public transportation to work, doing our part to decrease the number of cars on the streets and improve our carbon footprint! But this is not the case for most of Americans who live outside of a major city. Millions live where there is little to no public transportation and so they are left 2. Write a brief (5-8 sentences) reflection of your observations and experiences during the challenge/at the moment of the photograph to ugradpost@worldlearning.org. Tell us with no other option than to drive. In the past few years the US has taken steps to encourwhat you think this landmark, person, or place reveals about US culture, and make age carpooling (driving to work with a neighbor comparisons with your home culture. See the example to the right completed by a UG- or friend) and has set up bike lanes on some RAD staff member. streets.
1. Take a photo holding the postcard we have mailed to you with the person or place as instructed. You can take the photo individually or as a group if there is more than one UGRAD scholar present with you on the challenge. If there are UGRAD students from multiple schools in the picture, please ensure that all postcards are easily seen in the photo.
3. UGRAD staff will include the best submissions in the Global Gazette and on our State Alumni website, to be viewed by over 500 Global UGRAD alumni and State Department contacts. Every complete submission will be posted on our interactive map that can be found on the Experience America tab on Ning.
First submissions are due: October 1st
September 2010
Toolbox
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TRANSITION INTO ACADEMICS
Plagiarism As you begin your fall academic semester, we would like to call your attention to an important topic for you as university students in the US. While we are certain that your on-campus orientations have addressed the issue of plagiarism, we at World Learning would like to emphasize the seriousness of the matter.
What is plagiarism? Plagiarism is the use of another person’s thinking and/or writing as your own without citing the owner of the original idea. There are many degrees of plagiarism: from extracting an entire chapter of a book to duplicating a sentence in an article or copying a classmate’s opinion. If credit is not given to the owner of the original idea, this constitutes plagiarism.
How is plagiarism viewed in the US? Plagiarism can be intentional or unintentional. Many countries are not as strict as the US about plagiarism and new international students could unknowingly plagiarize ideas or words. In the US, an individual and/or entity owns his or her ideas and words. There is a strong emphasis on protection of original work and for one to claim and receive credit for original work.
What are the consequences of plagiarism? Your university will not tolerate any form of plagiarism. Please see your individual university policy for specific repercussions that may result from plagiarism. Depending on the severity of a violation, a student may be asked to rewrite an assignment with proper citation, be given a failing grade, or even be sent home. Don’t let this happen! As always, if you have questions, please consult your academic advisor and your UGRAD program team. It is very important that you fully understand what constitutes plagiarism and learn how to properly cite original work. Thank you for your careful attention to this matter.
ation : m r o f n I : More giarism
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, literar rg nual fo w.apastyle.o uage studies a m n Citatio le: http://ww of lang ty tudents s r fo l APA S manua tyle Citation anities: la.org/s e sciences: m .m u ip_cit w h w , e tur of th p://w ar y/reft r tt ts h ib n : /l e le ts d y n t MLA S manual for stu .edu/Docume e n r o io t m a it th C ar ww.sw http://w f esci.pd
September 2010
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Toolbox
TRANSITION INTO ACADEMICS
Time Management We all have the same 24 hours a day to finish the tasks we want to complete. No matter how intelligent or ambitious you may be, if you don’t organize your time well, even simple tasks could leave you feeling overwhelmed. Below are some tips. 1. See the “big picture”. Keep a wall calendar of important events for the semester, so that you can plan around them and leave room for surprises. Include all exams, deadlines, and quizzes. Don’t forget to put birthdays and school breaks on there. Leisure activities are important too!
3. Create a realistic timetable. Once you have identified your task and created a plan for accomplishing them, designate a realistic amount of time for each of them. 4. Know when you work best. Some people are more focused in the morning. Others get their best studying done at night. Knowing your own cycle of productivity will help you make an action plan for accomplishing your goals.
5. Resist the urge to “multi-task.” Maybe you are typing your paper and 2. Make a “to-do” list. talking on your cell phone, or chatting Write down everything you want to do that with friends while doing research on the day, including school-related, personal, and internet. You may think multitasking leisure activities. If you set small goals for makes you more productive, however, yourself, it becomes more manageable to trying to balance your concentration achieve success. and energy on various tasks at once can actually make you work slower. Always try to focus on the task at hand. You’ll absorb the information more quickly.
Student Corner
6. Don’t procrastinate. Take action on the items on your to-do list early. The longer you wait, the more tasks build up. 7. Practice healthy lifestyle habits. Think of food as fuel for your mind. Pizza or ice cream is a nice treat, but do not make it a habit. Eating a wholesome, balanced diet will clear your mind and energize your body. Do your best to get a full night’s rest (7-9 hours per night). Do physical exercise, at least three days per week. Your mind and body will thank you for it. 8. Stay balanced. Make time for breaks. We want you not only to excel in your academics, but also to meet new people and stay healthy. We want you to grow as a young leader. By balancing your studies with other activities, you will be happier, healthier, and more productive!
CURRENT STUDENT WORK
By: Wanitcha (Fa) Wannasook, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Thailand
By: Aventia Wilona, University of WisconsinEau Claire, Indonesia
September 2010
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Alumni Corner
REMINDERS: ● September 1 — Experience America begins ● September 6 — World Learning Office is closed for Labor Day ● September 10 — Course Approval forms due ● October 1
— Experience America 1st submissions due
● October 8
— Community Service Approval Forms due
How to cook s’mores Yumjirmaa Mandakh, Mongolia UGRAD Participant 2009—2010 1. First, make a fire. 2. Toast your marshmallow on a hanger until it gets golden brown all around. 3. Remember to be careful while you are toasting, because it is easy to burn! 4. Then insert the toasted marshmallow between two graham crackers with a piece of chocolate, like a sandwich. I had s’mores for the first time when I was going to our north shore adventure trip in Minnesota. It was an unforgettable experience. When you nibble the s’mores, it will dissolve in your mouth. So sweet!
IDIOMS COLOR YOUR LANGUAGE! “The jury is still out” - Steve Cesar, Haiti, Montana State University
"Easy on the wallet -Eunic " e Misc adin, H aiti,
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ye” ye m f eo e r, ppl a ck l e u e T tat th ra tS ’r e d d l u n o leja “Yo mb bi A a, Hu u -R gu ara c i N
oldt St
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Building Bridges At a dinner held on August 24 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolian Global UGRAD alumni welcomed the latest group of participants in World Learning’s SIT Study Abroad program to their country. The UGRAD alumni and Study Abroad students were warmly welcomed by Fiona Addleton, wife of the US Ambassador to Mongolia (pictured second row center), and World Learning staff. The dinner was just the first of several events that will unite American undergrads studying abroad with their Mongolian UGRAD counterparts. Look for similar upcoming events in Panama and Nicaragua.
“I plead
the 5th !” -Tatian a Perp etue A Univer ugustin sity of , Haiti, Alabam a-Hunt sville
“The squeaky wheel gets the oil” -Alejandro Cedeno Chaverri, Costa Rica, University of Arkansas
“Don’t judge a book by its cover” -William Chamorro, Nicaragua, University of Arkansas
“Sweating like a pig” -Ronald Joaquín Torres, Venezuela, University of Utah
"Second to none” -Wanitcha (Fa) Wannasook, Thailand,University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
“Better safe than sorry” - Reneve Jeanty, Haiti, Missouri State University
DON’T KNOW WHAT THES THESEE MEAN? ASK A FRIEND FRIEND!!