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

Page 33 text:

From far-distant countries, leaving friends and families, leaving a whole way of life, thousands of students come to the University. Here they find many problems, some expected; others a surprise. Although knowledge of English is a pre-requisite for admittance, they find, as Americans do, that language learned in the classroom can be entirely different from the common spoken form. The English Languge Institute tries to fill this gap but the student learns mainly by contact with other students. For some the fast-moving culture, the different customs and people make the adjustment a difficult one. Often, the tip anJ casual attitude of Americans toward education amazes and mystifies the evidently serious foreign student. So much that we take for granted is strange to those from other lands.

Page 32 text:

The cosmopolitan atmosphere oj Michigan is a result of the multitude oj different peoples from all parts of the globe. About two thousand foreign students are a part of the campus, coming from over forty countries of the world. They have a great effect upon the University and the individual, lor knowledge gained from contact with different people is perhaps the greatest part of education. The influx of customs and traditions have immense impact upon the values and beliefs of the student. This contact brings a more personal understanding of each other s problems and long-lasting friendships can develop. Friendships which can have great effect upon the peace of the world. 28

Page 34 text:

The foreign student comes here to learn, not only from professors and books, but from American students. Most of them live in apartments because of economic conditions, the desire for their own foods or simply for more freedom and privacy. Because of this and the American student s way of life, there exists little opportunity, with the exception of the International Center, for both to become acquainted. Some find a great gulf of separation in existence and this a lonely, unfriendly country: for others, it is a worthwhile and rewarding experience. Much does depend on them but perhaps the deciding factor is a smile, a helping hand, understanding and friendship ...