Epilogue

As stated in the Acknowledgement, compiling an International Student Handbook is not easy. There are some areas that may be left out. It was not intentional. As I have stated so many times, come by the Office of International Student Retention Services, Room 258 of the Student Center, if you have questions or concerns.

Please remember you are away from home for the purpose of getting an education. Do not get carried away with your freedom and lose sight of your goal. This can happen to anyone who is on their own. You may have already noticed:

• Generally people in the US like to have their personal space.
• A great deal of emphasis is put on personal cleanliness, some say it is an obsession.
• American women are treated with the same dignity and respect that men receive. If they don't feel they are being treated equally, they can and do speak up for themselves. Be prepared to have a man or a woman wait on you in a store.
• Many Americans have pets - usually cats and dogs - that are allowed in every room of the house. Before you visit someone, ask if they have pets. If you are uncomfortable about being around certain animals for any reason - health, religious, etc.- let the host or hostess know before you go to the house.
• People don't mind making adjustments for your dietary restrictions if you let them know in advance when they invite you for a meal.
• Most homes and buildings are "smoke free" environments. If you are in a house with no visible ashtrays, they probably don't want smoking in the house.
• It is not necessary to take a gift when you visit someone. Politeness counts. Showing your appreciation is important. A "Thank You Note" is appreciated.
• Pay attention to your instincts. If a situation or a person makes you feel uneasy, don't ignore these feelings. Your instincts are your protection. Don't allow yourself to be forced into going somewhere or doing something you don't feel right about.

I could go on forever trying to cover everything you will and could encounter in the United States. If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know. The most important thing is that you take positive advantage of all the opportunities presented to you. You are here for a reason. We are all where we are supposed to be at this time. Remember, "Life is like a train ride. People get on and people get off...but some few will ride with you until the end."

Enjoy your travel at KSU!

Charmayne B. Richardson

http://www.kennesaw.edu/stu_dev/isrs/toc.html

(Updated November 2004)

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