School
High schools in most countries are very different than high schools in the U.S. You may not have as many choices or electives as you are used to; your class schedule may be assigned to you before you depart the U.S. or upon arrival in the host country. Extra- and co-curricular activities to which we are accustomed in the U.S., like drama club, band, sports and debate teams, etc. are often not attached to schools in other countries. You may find that familiar subjects taught in your host school are organized in an unfamiliar way.
Research the educational system in your host country to develop a realistic understanding of the differences and similarities you might encounter. It may not be possible to find out very much about your specific host school before you depart, but that does not mean that you should refrain from asking questions. Preparing yourself to be flexible and learn as much as you can from your experience in your host school will be helpful to your adjustment.
Setting School Expectations
- Ask AFS Alumni (ask your local AFS volunteers to connect you)
- Consult your program and country information packet for information about the education system
- Ask your host family for school information when you contact them
Language Learning
Learning a new language will probably be one of the most rewarding aspects of your program! It is also a significant part of connecting with your host community and school. For these reasons, it is important to do as much preparation as possible before you depart.
Helpful Phrases
- Introductions (Hello, my name is... How are you? Nice to meet you. Etc.)
- Sincere opening questions (Hello, how are you? Nice to meet you…)
- Where is the...? (bathroom? bus stop?)
- How do you say...?
- Thank you; please; you’re welcome
- Excuse me
- I need help; I’m lost
- I like/do not like...
Language Learning Tips
- Label household items in the language you are learning.
- Seek out native language speakers/returnees in your home community.
- Watch television shows, movies, news in your host country language with or without English subtitles.
- Bring a photo book of your life at home and learn to talk about everything in it.
- Keep a journal of your experiences in your host country language.
- Don’t forget non-verbal language! Gestures may factor into your host country communication. How far apart do people stand when talking? Do people greet with a handshake; a hug; a kiss?
Making Friends
It can be challenging to build new friendships in your host community. The process can sometimes feel lonely, especially when you are learning their language and don’t feel confident with your ability to communicate.
However, one of the greatest ways to learn a language is to speak with a friend you feel comfortable with – often, friends in your host community will be eager to help you learn and include you in activities that will help your language skills. Here are some things to keep in mind when making friends:
- Be friendly, take the initiative, and invite someone to join you in an activity.
- Accept invitations even if you are feeling shy.
- Try to get involved in various activities.
- Reflect on how relationships are formed in your new host culture,
- Connect with fellow AFSers who are going through similar experiences/challenges/victories, as you are.
- Don’t be afraid to take chances and share your culture/personality with those around you.
- Use whatever local language abilities you can.
- Keep up good personal hygiene and dress as accepted in the culture.
- Don’t get discouraged. Remember, building friendships takes time and effort.