The Counseling Advising Program Services (CAPS) Center at Kennesaw State University would like to welcome you to Kennesaw and our campus. Studying abroad is an exciting adventure as well as a major life transition. For many of you this is the first time away from home. While you may be looking forward to all the opportunities that come with living in another country, you may also feel apprehensive about the many unknowns.

 

Culture Shock and Homesickness(see Symptoms of Culture Shock)

Before you left your country, you may have wished to be more independent. Now perhaps you find yourself somewhat lonely. You may encounter too many choices, too much freedom, too little direction and guidance. You may feel disoriented by all of the different sights, smells, sounds and tastes. American values, traditions and habits may be confusing. You may wonder how to make friends and how to communicate with others. You might be concerned about your academic performance and you may feel uncertain about how to spend your free time, especially on weekends and university holidays.

Your parents, siblings and friends are not here. Your favorite foods and places to go are not available for your comfort. You might worry about your family at home and fear you may disappoint them. Your self-confidence may drop because you compare yourself to American students. Add to that the pressure of needing to study in a foreign language, possible misunderstandings with professors and roommates, and you have all the ingredients of stress.

LONELINESS AND BOREDOM

It's relatively easy to feel disconnected, lonely and bored in a new and unfamiliar community. Regardless of how it may seem to you, there is a niche for everyone. It might just take a little work to find yours. There are dozens of student organizations and groups at KSU, representing a wide variety of interests and hobbies. Options for volunteer work abound, and provide an interesting way to meet new people and acquire new skills. Many local religious groups offer programs for singles and international students, which can provide a refreshing alternative to staying home alone. Refer to KSU's web site to view links for student organizations. http://www.kennesaw.edu/students/campuslife.shtml . KSU has an active International Student Association so be sure to check them out.

EMBRACING DIVERSITY

As a student you will come into contact with others who are very different from you. Differences can be found on many dimensions: race, ethnic identity, national origin, religious beliefs, sexual preference, economic status, and others. When people with such differences come together in one, relatively small community, there is much opportunity for both conflict and mutual enrichment. A very important part of KSU's GET GLOBAL mission involves expanding the intellect and experience of students, and it is hoped that all will benefit from the full range of opportunities available to them. Approaching others with an open mind and acceptance will help you obtain this benefit. This does not mean that you are expected to endorse or condone the beliefs and behaviors of others. Rather, it means learning what you can about the variety of human experience and using it to enrich your own life and give constructive voice to your opinions.

WE'RE HERE TO HELP YOU

When living at home you may have had many helpful strategies to deal with difficult situations but these may not be available to you now. As a result you may feel that you are alone with your problems and that there is no one to talk to. We would like you to know that you can make an appointment to talk with one of the Counselors. Simply call (770.423.6600) or stop by Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to make an appointment. There is no problem too big or small.

In the past, international students have come in to talk about:

....wanting to clarify American customs

....being afraid that their English is not good enough

....worrying about being a failure or disappointment to their parents

....feeling homesick and lonely

....experiencing culture shock

....feeling upset over the break-up of a romantic relationship

....feeling conflict regarding their own needs versus those of their parents

....having difficulty going to class because of feelings of depression

....having problems with eating, body image and self-esteem

....feeling afraid that others don't like them, and other issues

HOW COUNSELING IS VIEWED IN THE U.S.

When a person talks to a counselor or psychologist in other countries, it may mean that a person has a "big" problem. It does not mean the same thing in the U.S. Here it is quite common for people to consult with a counselor/psychologist. Most believe it is a “good idea” to discuss personal matters with a counselor and it shows strength and courage rather than weakness. It is a way to take care of oneself and to prevent physical and mental health problems. Counseling is confidential and free to KSU students.

We hope this information has been helpful and that many of you will stop by the CAPS Center , 2 nd floor of Kennesaw Hall or call 770.423.6600 for an appointment. We are here to ease your transition and help you in your quest for academic and career success.

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Adapted from the University of Oregon 's Counseling Center web site and The University of Alabama 's Counseling Center web site