University of Michigan - Michiganensian Yearbook (Ann Arbor, MI)

Page 18 text:

Color and contrast on the American scene International students at the Union demonstrate conclusively that other cultures and customs have their role, not only within the liberal arts classroom of the University, but in the social life of all her students. Friendships first formed during freshman dorm days are preserved by a weekly get-together over a snack. Contrast in cultures is typical of the Michigan scene. But the attraction of window-shopping is world-wide, and understood by women everywhere. 14

Page 17 text:

Teas, policies, and campus activities . Ainnni; i he special events of ihe year attended by the President was (he dedication of the Student Activities Building, during which he participated in the ceremony. The topic of conversation could be chocolate pie, increasing en- rollment, or Sputnik when Dr. Hatcher is chatting. Students always find him a stimulating, enjoyable person, as witnessed by the smiles on these students ' faces. Holding the position in the University which ramifies into every area of the academic world, President Harlan H. Hatcher executes his many duties with wisdom and di- plomacy. As the chief representative of Michigan, he has demonstrated his abilities in wise policy decisions and firm administration. A busy schedule of various activities dominates the life of a college president; yet President Hatcher realizes that close student contact is a necessary aspect of his position. Several times throughout the year, he and Mrs. Hatcher open their stately home to the campus and enthusiastically meet the student population. In his office, Dr. Hatcher is constantly confronted with the problems of administration, and relations with legisla- tors, the press, faculty, alumni, and the student body. Each of these he meets in a capable and effective manner. Under his supervision, Michigan has grown not only in size but in integrity. President Hatcher continues to empha- size that all investigation that advances the boundaries of knowledge is pertinent to our University. Obviously a party is in progress, but where is the host? Right in front, sit- ting on the floor! The picture attests to the informality and fun that make a tea at Dr. Hatcher ' s a most enjoy- able experience.

Page 19 text:

c olor, illumination, and motion are three essential characteris- ti( s of the Michigan mos.iu . Among the liveliest and most color- ful personages on the campus are those who each year leave behind their homes in other lands and conic to .1 far-off place called Michigan to study. Bringing with them a wealth of na- tional and cultural heritage, they move quietly among us, in- quiring, listening, exchanging ideas and views. Their ways are not our ways. There are many adjustments to be made, many new customs to learn, many strange enigmas to contemplate. American students seem constantly in a rush; they can be very brash, very loud, and at times unkind. Ameri- can ways are streamlined, designed for .1 fast pace; they can seem confusing and cold to newcomers. But the international student quickly discovers that although many do ignore him, there are still some who care there are those who will help him find a room, who will chat with him, who will be his friend. A chance encounter sometimes leads to a warm association, a friendship based on rapport which spans the cultural gulf. This, after all, is the purpose of coming to an American school: to learn to understand people, people whose background is differ- ent from one ' s own. Coming t study in a foreign land requires great strength of purpose, determination, and even courage. It is a turning point in anyone ' s life. It means stepping out of familiar and comfort- able habits, and opening one ' s mind to new views, some of which may be extremely disturbing. It means learning to give and to rctcive, both in a new and unfamiliar idiom. Coming to the University to study means self-insight plus the ability to relate to others. It means assuming one ' s own, individual place in the vast multi-colored mosaic of Michigan.