Application Components – Post Decision

The GEO application for off-campus study consists of the following components as part of the “Post-Decision” checklist. They will appear in your checklist on our website after your application has been accepted and are equally crucial to your ability to participate in your off-campus study program. Please review each section carefully so you’ll be prepared to sign and submit these components of your application.

Applicants will need to agree to the following:

  • I assume full responsibility for all financial obligations incurred by me as a result of my participation in and actions during or collateral to the off-campus study program to which I am applying. 
  • I acknowledge that if the College of Wooster finds it necessary to cancel this program due to health, safety or security risks in one or more of the program locations, the College of Wooster has the authority to cancel the program without providing any refunds. 
  • I acknowledge that typically no refunds are available after the start of the program. 
  • I acknowledge that if the College of Wooster or any third-party deems it necessary to expel me from the program I will not receive any refunds and will be responsible for any costs incurred as a result of leaving the program and returning to the U.S. 
  • I understand that The College of Wooster requires students studying off-campus to be covered for the duration of the program by health and accident insurance and that it is my responsibility to read and understand the extent of this coverage.  The College of Wooster makes no representations or warranties regarding the adequacy or sufficiency of any insurance coverage.  The College of Wooster encourages students to keep their primary insurance in addition to any supplemental international health insurance policies. 
  • I agree that the program may provide me [the student], through medical personnel of its choice, customary medical assistance, transportation, and emergency medical services. I understand and agree that The College of Wooster assumes no responsibility for any injury or damages that might arise out of or in connection with such medical treatment. I further agree that any expenses resulting from the provision of such medical services are my responsibility.
  • I understand that the College of Wooster will apply all financial aid to an approved application for one approved study off-campus program (semester or year-long) subject to the following condition:  I must be enrolled at Wooster the semester following study abroad.  I understand that if I do not return to The College of Wooster after the off-campus study program, and if institutional financial aid was applied to my participation, that I will be billed for the full amount of aid distributed. I agree that in such case I will repay those funds to The College.

I have read and understand the statements above and acknowledge my obligations by submitting this document. 

Applicants will need to agree to the following:

  • I assume full responsibility for all legal obligations incurred by me as a result of my participation in and actions during or collateral to the off-campus study program to which I am applying. 
  • I acknowledge that I will be required to obey and comply with all requirements, policies, and the Code of Conduct at my host institution, as well as those of any third-party assisting with program delivery such as the program provider, a hotelier, or a transportation company. 
  • I acknowledge that I will be required to obey and comply with the laws of any foreign countries that I may visit, including but not limited to laws pertaining to alcoholic beverages, marijuana, and other substances that are illegal under the laws of those countries. The College of Wooster, its Board of Trustees, officers and employees does not assume any responsibility or liability of any kind for my commission of any illegal act. 
  • Furthermore, I recognize that if I engage in illegal behavior or fail to comply with all requirements and the Code of Conduct at my host institution, I may be expelled from the PROGRAM. I acknowledge that I will not receive any refunds and will be responsible for any costs incurred from leaving the program and returning to the U.S. if the College of Wooster or any third-party deems it necessary to expel me from the program. 

I have read and understand the statements above and acknowledge my obligations by submitting this document. 

The GEO Standards of Conduct agreement is a set of standards that you agree to as part of the GEO application process, so please read it carefully! The Standards of Conduct details the process that would occur should you allegedly violate these Standards. If you have questions, please schedule a meeting with your GEO Advisor.

Applicants will need to agree to the following:

  1. As a condition of being permitted to participate in an off-campus study program, I agree to conduct myself as a responsible member of The College of Wooster community. This means that as a condition of enrollment in an off-campus study program (“Program”), I agree to assume the responsibility to observe standards of conduct that will contribute to the pursuit of the academic goals of the Program and to the welfare of other members of the Program community. This responsibility includes, but is not limited to, being respectful of one another, being respectful of others I encounter while abroad. refraining from behavior that would jeopardize the health, safety, or welfare of myself or of any other person. and maintaining the integrity of the Program. 
  2. I understand that, given the unique aspects and circumstances of studying off-campus, incidents of misconduct are inherently contrary to the health, safety, and welfare of other persons on the same Program.  
  3. I understand that a violation of the GEO Standards of Conduct (“GEO Standards”) may lead to corrective action by Global Engagement Office (“GEO”), the Dean of Students Office, and/or the Program, up to and including, immediate dismissal from the Program. 
  4. I understand that a violation of the GEO Standards may result in GEO and/or the Program referring the matter to The College of Wooster Dean of Students Office for consideration of further action, including possible disciplinary action and sanctions under the Scot’s Key, which could include suspension or dismissal from the College. 
  5. I understand that, for the purposes of the GEO Standards and Compliance Procedures, “during the term of the Program” means the entire time period from the commencement of the Program (including any pre-departure activities) through the date of the termination of the Program. Unless otherwise indicated, all GEO Standards apply during the term of the Program. Also, the term “distribution” means providing or making available to any other person or persons. 

  1. Disruption of the academic environment of the Program, or unauthorized or unexcused absences from the Program or any mandatory Program activities. 
  2. Obstruction or disruption of teaching or other College or Program activities. 
  3. The refusal to comply with any lawful College directive related to the Program. 
  4. Not adhering to high standards of academic honesty or integrity, including plagiarism and cheating; unauthorized access to or viewing, copying, or distributing of confidential academic, administrative, or personal records; forgery, alteration or misuse of official documents, records or identification; or knowingly furnishing false information. 

  1. The physical harm or abuse or another person, the direct or implied threat of physical harm or abuse of another person, or other conduct intended to threaten the physical harm or abuse of another person. 
  2. Engaging in activities that endanger the health, welfare, or safety of oneself or others. 
  3. Harassment, including but not limited to, sexual harassment or other forms of discriminatory harassment, based on a person’s race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or military status. 
  4. Stalking, whether directly, indirectly, via electronic means, or through third parties. 
  5. Relationship/domestic violence or abuse. 
  6. Sexual misconduct, including, but not limited to, sexual assault. 
  7. Retaliation against anyone who makes a report of a violation of this agreement, College policy, or laws of the home country or against anyone who participates in any investigation. 
  8. Possession, use, or distribution of firearms, explosives, dangerous chemicals, or other inherently dangerous weapons or instruments. 
  9. Openly and knowingly abusing, disrespecting, or showing flagrant disregard for the customs and mores of the host community.
  10. Disorderly, lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct, gestures, or actions. 
  11. Intentionally inciting others to engage in any unlawful activity, which incitement leads directly to such conduct. 
  12. Hazing (as defined in Ohio Revised Code Sec. 2903.31, as may be amended), or encouraging or assisting someone else to engage in hazing. 
  13. Knowingly making a false report of a crime, emergency, or violation of these standards of conduct. 
  14. Violating the laws of the country in which the student is traveling or studying. 
  15. Violating or not complying with the rules or requirements applicable to the Program in which I am enrolled. 
  16. Violating or not complying with the rules, regulations, procedures, policies, standards of conduct, and orders of the College. 
  17. Unlawful or illegal conduct under international, U.S. federal, Ohio State or local law. 

  1. Knowingly violating the rules and policies, whether formal or informal, of the host university, residential housing, homestay, youth hostel, or other College or Program arranged housing where the student is studying or staying. 
  2. The malicious or willful misuse, destruction, deprivation, theft of, or malicious damage or vandalism to, property belonging to the College, another person, institution, organization, or entity. 
  3. Unauthorized entry into or use of facilities, equipment, or technology of the College or host/partner. as well as illegal or otherwise inappropriate use of host University or Program’s technology. 
  4. Engaging in conduct that results in eviction or termination from one’s lodging. 
  5. Not respecting the rights and privileges of other members of the Program community, the host institution, or the host family or location. 
  6. Disturbing the peace or disrupting the quiet enjoyment of the community.

  1. The abuse of or excessive and/or irresponsible use of alcohol, as reasonably determined by the Program Director(s), GEO Director, or TREK leaders, which includes, but is not limited to, being demonstrably under the influence of alcohol during any Program activities
  2. The purchase, possession, use, or distribution of alcohol that is in violation of the laws of the country or countries where the Program is taking plac
  3. Regardless of the laws of the country or countries where the Program is taking place, the purchase, possession, use, or distribution of alcohol during any Program activities, unless the Program Director is allowing the consumption of alcohol by students of legal age in the country where the Program is taking place, at that event or activity.
  4. The use or possession of alcohol on premises used or controlled by the Program where such use or possession is in violation of any rules of the premises or any restrictions specified by the Program Director(s).
  5. The distribution of alcohol to any other person under the legal age for alcohol consumption in the country or countries where the Program is taking place.

  1. The purchase, possession, use, distribution, or manufacture of any drug(s) that is in violation of the laws of the country or countries where the Program is taking place.
  2. The purchase, possession, use, distribution, or manufacture of a controlled substance(s) as defined in Ohio Revised Code Sec. 3719.01 or 12 U.S.C. § 802 that would be in violation of Ohio State or U.S. federal law, if such purchase, possession, use, distribution, or manufacture had occurred in Ohio.

I have read and understand the GEO Standards of Conduct and by submitting this document indicate my agreement to be bound by their terms as a condition of being a participant in an off-campus study program.

Applicants will need to agree to the following:

General Procedure

In the event a student is alleged to have engaged in conduct during the term of a study abroad program in violation of the GEO Standards, the following process will apply:

The Program Director, on-site coordinator, and/or a representative of the Global Engagement Office will conduct a preliminary assessment of the alleged violation(s). The student(s) may be temporarily separated from the Program or from Program activities while the preliminary assessment is conducted.

If, based on the preliminary assessment, the Program Director, on-site coordinator, or representative of GEO, College of Wooster Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities, or College of Wooster Title IX Coordinator determines that there is reasonable cause to believe that a violation of GEO Standards has occurred, s/he will provide the student(s) alleged to have violated the GEO Standards with verbal and/or written notice of the allegation(s). Additionally, the student(s) will be informed of the potential corrective action(s) that may be taken and will be given a reasonable opportunity to respond to the allegations. This may all be accomplished in person, in writing, via the telephone, or other reasonable means of communication as determined by the College. In cases involving allegations of sexual harassment, sexual misconduct (including, but not limited to, sexual assault), stalking, and relationship violence, the alleged victim will also be given notice and an opportunity to be heard prior to any decision (as described in paragraph C below) is made.

After providing the student with notice and an opportunity to respond, and following the completion of any follow up review deemed appropriate, the Program Director, on-site coordinator, and/or representative of GEO, in consultation with the College Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities and the Title IX Coordinator, will determine whether the student has violated GEO Standards, and if so, what corrective action(s) specified in Section E below will be implemented, except that any decision to dismiss a student from the Program must be approved in advance by a member of the College of Wooster leadership team (Dean of APEX, Dean of Curriculum and Academic Engagement, Provost, Dean of Students, President, or President’s designee).
 
Dismissal from a Program does not necessarily affect a student’s eligibility to register for, or his or her status in College of Wooster courses. A student’s status with regard to College enrollment shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of the Scot’s Key and/or other applicable University policies and procedures.

The student will be promptly informed in writing of any decision regarding corrective action, which may be implemented immediately and shall be final. A copy of any decision will be provided to the Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities.

  1. If a student is determined to have violated GEO Standards, one or more of the following corrective actions may be implemented:
    1. Verbal warning,
    2. Letter of warning or reprimand
    3. Probation (with conditions)
    4. Suspension from specified Program activities (with conditions)
    5. Dismissal from the Program (Emergency Dismissal is addressed in Section II. below)
  2. In connection with the implementation of any corrective action, a student may be reassigned to different housing at the student’s expense.
  3. Any prior violations of GEO Standards by a student and/or the nature or circumstances of the Program may be a basis to implement a more significant corrective action(s).
  4. A violation of GEO Standards that is similar to a student’s pre-Program violation of the Student Conduct Code may be a basis for the student to be dismissed from the Program. 

In the event a student is subject of a letter of warning or reprimand or is placed on probation or suspension, the student may be also informed of specific conditions/expectations regarding his/her conduct for the duration of the Program, and that any failure to comply with such conditions/expectations may result in immediate dismissal from the Program.

I have read and understand the GEO Standards of Conduct and by submitting this document indicate my agreement to be bound by their terms as a condition of being a participant in an off-campus study program.

Applicants will need to take action on the following:

Permission to Use Image or Posts

Students will need to read the statement below and indicate their answer.

The College of Wooster may wish to use an image or statement you submit to the Global Engagement Office, or a social media post you create for publicizing off-campus study opportunities and learning outcomes. GEO might use these on its website, advertising materials, GEO social media, or in reports.

Do you give permission for the College of Wooster to use your materials in this way? YES / NO

The College of Wooster wishes to work with you to develop strategies and identify resources that will help you be successful and healthy while abroad. To facilitate doing so, we ask that you disclose current or recent medical or mental health conditions that may require support while abroad, as well as any conditions or disabilities that may require accommodations. Keep in mind that physical or psychological conditions can become more serious under the stresses of a new environment abroad and that healthcare systems and accommodation requirements in other countries are different from the systems in place in the United States. Even students who are effectively managing their health in the U.S. may find that changes in air quality, elevation, diet, or climate – as well as stress factors related to culture and language – can exacerbate symptoms or bring on new health concerns.

Students are ultimately responsible for their well-being, and the responses you provide in this assessment will assist you in developing an appropriate action plan to conduct before studying off-campus. They also will help the Global Engagement Office assist you in determining resources available abroad to optimize your health and safety.

If your circumstances change after submitting this form, it is your responsibility to inform the Global Engagement Office. The information you provide is considered confidential and will be shared only as needed with the appropriate College of Wooster faculty or staff or on-site coordinators in order to protect your health and safety. Your responses will not affect your participation unless it is deemed by a healthcare provider that your condition is so serious nature that it would impact your ability to be successful on the program. If that is the case, we will discuss options with you.

If you require accommodations while abroad, you will need to submit official supporting documentation to receive consideration for accommodations (you can use the same documentation you submitted to the Academic Resource Center at Wooster). You would submit that documentation to your program provider or exchange university.

GEO suggests that as you assess your health and complete these forms you begin to develop a personal health and safety action plan that you can employ during your off-campus program. This is an important skill that all international travelers should possess and practice!

1) Documented Disabilities

Do you have any disabilities for which you will need accommodations abroad? If yes, please list. Are you registered with the Academic Resource Center regarding this disability? If no, take steps to register as soon as possible.

2) Food Allergies / Dietary Restrictions

Do you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions? Select all that apply and Inform GEO immediately if symptoms are life-threatening:

  • No allergies or dietary restrictions
  • Celiac Disease (gluten free)
  • Diabetic
  • Egg allergy or intolerance
  • Halal diet
  • Kosher diet
  • Milk/lactose allergy or intolerance
  • Paleo diet
  • Peanut/tree nut allergy
  • Shellfish allergy or intolerance
  • Soybean allergy or intolerance
  • Vegan diet
  • Vegetarian diet
  • Wheat allergy
  • Other

3) Other Allergies

Do you have any serious drug, animal, or insect allergies? If yes, please list type and disclose if your symptoms are life-threatening.

4) Medications

Do you plan to take prescription medications while abroad? If yes, please disclose the medication and provide dosage information. NOTE: It is critical to determine if your prescriptions will be legal in your host country. See the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website for more information..

5) Medical Conditions

Have you been treated in the last five years, or are you currently being treated for any of the following? Select all that apply:

  • General: Alcohol/Substance Abuse, Eating Disorder, Immunodeficiency, Severe Migraine, Seizures
  • Respiratory: Asthma, Tuberculosis, Other
  • Gastrointestinal: Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Other
  • Endocrine: Diabetes, Other
  • Mental Health: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, Other
  • No, I have not been treated for these conditions.

6) Action Plan for Students with a Documented Disability, Allergies, or Prescription Medication

Did you answer “yes” to having a documented disability, an allergy, and/or for taking prescription medication? If so, well in advance of your departure, will you commit to discussing your health care needs with the appropriate healthcare provider as it relates to your off-campus experience?

7) Action Plan for Students with a Medical Condition

Did you answer “yes” to having a medical condition? If so, you are required to meet with your healthcare provider to discuss your condition as it relates to off-campus study and have them submit the GEO Healthcare Provider Form. Once you have your provider’s signature, you can upload the signed document to your GEO Application.

8) Do you plan to take prescription medications while abroad?

If so, please list and provide dosage information.

As part of The College of Wooster’s commitment to student safety and security, all students participating in an off-campus study program must take with them, or intend to purchase upon arrival abroad, a cell phone that can exchange calls and texts with the staff at the Global Engagement Office.

The cell phone policy responds to global incidents that have required the Global Engagement Office to verify the safety of College of Wooster students abroad. The policy will help GEO account for students, either individually or in large groups, in the event of an emergency.  Failure to secure a locally serviced phone plan during off-campus study and/or failing to provide contact information to GEO, will severely limit our ability to assist you in case of an emergency.

We advise student to do one of the following:
 

  1. Take a cell phone that is open and able to accept a local SIM card. (Double check with your program provider to see if it will be usable at the program location.)
  2.  Ask an on-site program staff member to assist you in purchasing a smart phone locally. (This topic is typically covered in on-site orientation.)
  3. Take a dual SIM smart phone with you and purchase a SIM card in country.

While we recognize that alternative communication methods such as WhatsApp, Facetime, and Skype are often free or less expensive than cell service s, they are not adequate in the event of an emergency.

If you do not yet know what phone you will utilize when abroad, please remember to return to your off-campus study application once you have determined what your cell number will be while abroad and provide that information.

If you are unable to provide a cell phone for your experience, please discuss solutions with your GEO advisor.


 Remember: This policy will help ensure your well-being and bring peace of mind to your parents and family.

An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) outlines a plan of action in the event of an emergency. It is important to create an Emergency Action Plan whenever you are in a new or unfamiliar location; doing so familiarizes you with local resources and prepares you to make wise decisions in the face of disaster – a time when there may be chaos and little time to think. This action plans outlines the 5 steps involved in responding to an emergency and the information you will need to make quick, but thoughtful decisions.

In the event of an emergency, where would you go?

  • List two options (your apartment, program’s office, friend’s home, host-family, etc.). 
  • In the event of an emergency, your normal mode(s) of transportation might not be available. Be aware of alternative transportation options to your safe spaces in the event of an emergency and detail them below (bus, metro, train, Uber, etc.). Provide route numbers and phone numbers, if pertinent.

Once you are in a safe space, assess your physical and emotional needs and, if you are sheltering with others, their physical and emotional needs.

  • Take a few moments to breathe deeply and clear your head.
  • If possible, find your emergency kit and gather medications you take. 
  • Treat any injuries you can manage yourself – small cuts and so on. 

If you are wounded, seek medical care and transport.

  • If outside the U.S., list the country-specific number(s) for health, fire, and safety emergencies:
  • List the location and number for the nearest hospital: 
  • List the location and number of the nearest Urgent Care facility: 
  • List the office location and number of your health care providers (doctor, dentist, optometrist, counselor, etc.). 
  • List your health insurance information and save a copy of proof of coverage in your phone and first aid kit. 

Although in an emergency your first reaction might be to call family or friends, you should wait to do so until you are in a safe location and have sought necessary medical attention.

  • List at least two emergency contacts and all possible ways of contacting them: phone numbers, email addresses, WhatsApp, etc. You should consider both local and U.S.-based contacts.
  • If studying off-campus, list both your program’s on-site emergency contact information and your program’s U.S. based emergency contact number. 
  • List your host university’s emergency contact information, if applicable. 
  • If interning, list at least one contact at your place of work and all contact information. 

College of Wooster Emergency Phone Numbers:


Campus Security | 330-287-3333


Longbrake Student Wellness Center | 330-263-2319


When calling 911:

  • Stay on the line with the dispatcher.
  • Provide the address of the building involved and your exact location. This is especially critical if you are calling from a cell phone.
  • Provide a thorough description of the incident to ensure that proper resources are dispatched.
  • Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to do so. 
  • List at least one contact at the College of Wooster, in addition to the general contacts above.

In an emergency it is important to gather information specific to your situation – especially any local, state, or national directives that have been issued. Everyone will have ideas of what you should do. To the extent possible, utilize real-time information to make data-driven decisions to keep you safe.

  • Are there weather hazards or natural disasters to consider in your location (earthquakes, tsunamis, etc.? Do you know what to do if one occurs?
  • Are there any other special conditions to consider that are unique to your situation (poor public transportation, poor phone service, lack of Internet)? How would you work around these conditions?
  • If the situation did not allow you to follow your original emergency plan, what might be a back-up or contingency plan(s)?

Most students do not encounter emergencies while working or studying off-campus. Nonetheless, savvy travelers recognize the importance of planning for the unexpected.

“Confidence comes from being prepared.” — John Wooden, American basketball player and head coach at UCLA, winner of 10 NCAA Championships in 12 years

The Emergency Card lists your most important contact numbers and personal information. Click here to open the card and its instructions. Print and complete the card according to the instructions.  Make several copies and leave a copy with your emergency contacts in the U.S as well as with your emergency contacts in your host country.  Keep one with you at all times. If you are lost or in danger having this information readily available could save your life!

It makes good sense to assemble an emergency kit to keep in your place of residence – particularly if you are living alone or with other students. Below are suggestions of supplies to gather and store in a backpack that you could easily “grab and go” if needed. If you are flying, pack your kit in your checked luggage as some of the items would not be permitted in a carry-on bag.

“There’s no harm in hoping for the best as long as you are prepared for the worst.” — Steven King, American author

This information can be found here (please bookmark for when you’re abroad) and on the back of your emergency card (if you print it double-sided).

In the event of an illness, crime, or emergency while on the program, students should:

1. Dial the equivalent of 911, if appropriate. Note that some countries have different numbers for police, fire, and emergencies.  Find the number for 911 in your host country.

2. Call your in-country program director or your TREK faculty director and follow their instructions. Inform them of your condition and whereabouts. In case of a national emergency (e.g., earthquake, terrorist attack), the host government also will give you instructions on how to proceed (seek higher ground, shelter in place, etc.).

3. Call your family/loved ones. Contact one person back home to let them know you are safe. Ask that person to call others on your behalf. In case of a national emergency, avoid tying up phone lines with multiple calls.

4. Contact GEO. If you are on a faculty-led program, this step may not be necessary as your faculty director will contact us. During office hours you can contact:

  • Candace Chenoweth | 330-263-2074
  • Ebed Sulbaran | 330-263-2227
  • Jenni Griffin | 330-263-2615
  • After hours: Wooster Campus Safety | 330-263-2590 or 330-263-3333
    • These lines are staffed 24/7. Campus Safety will know whom to contact to manage the situation and have cell phone numbers of relevant staff.

In the event you cannot use the telephone, please email. Telephone is the recommended way to contact us as it allows us to respond immediately, but sometimes phone lines are tied up or down after a national emergency. If this is the case, contact us by whatever means possible, including emailing or WhatsApp. 

If appropriate, contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate closest to you. In times of emergency, the embassy can often provide advice and resources to U.S. citizens.

5. Remain calm. Remember: You are not an expert in the host culture, and you may not know the best course of action immediately. Wait for instructions and follow them when given.

Can you guess how many decisions we make each day? Gustavo Razetti, CEO of Liberationist Consulting Company, claims that we make an average of 35,000 decisions a day. He writes: “Each of us has developed an unconscious decision-making system to manage routines. It prevents us from overloading our brains.”

It’s true – to some degree, that each of us lives our life on autopilot. And you must admit, it would be exhausting to stop and think intentionally about each of those 35,000 decisions,  

In Wooster you are so familiar with your surroundings, cultural norms, the language of everyday communication and so on, that you navigate much of your daily life on autopilot. them. Crossing Beall Avenue is a good example. Most of us are so used to the traffic patterns, the tendency of traffic to stop for us, the noise level and so on, that we barely look up from texting or conversing with friends when we enter the crosswalk.

You won’t have that same familiarity with your surroundings in your new home. Suddenly you will need to think more about your actions and make conscious decisions. Take a look at the picture below of a crowded street in India. Would you cross the street while absorbed in texting? Probably not, unless you were raised in India and this is normal for you!

Ultimately you are responsible for the choices you make regarding your safety while studying off campus! Many places could be as safe or safer than Wooster, but your lack of familiarity with the culture, language, people, and locales may put you at higher risk.

But there is another simple fact: in a new culture/city/country/language, you won’t be able to manage your life on autopilot! That is why studying off-campus is the perfect time to think about your personal risk preparedness.

“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.” – Jawaharial Nehru, Indian independence activist and first Prime Minister

Embrace these principles in order to minimize your risk while abroad – and still have fun (potentially more fun, even). Note: you’ve seen these before: in your Application Post-Decision materials. Please review them and set your intention to live by them while you’re away.

  • #1 Awareness

  • #2 Communication

  • #3 Cultural Common Sense

  • #4 Wise Decision Making

  • #1 – Awareness

    Suddenly you are living in a new town, and probably a new country! Learn from program staff, your host family, or local residents which areas of town are safe or dangerous and when to avoid certain locations. For example, normally safe areas may become riskier late at night, during soccer games, or political rallies. Determine which means of transportation are safe and secure, and at what time of day. Which is safer late at night: public transportation (buses, subways, etc.) or taxis or Uber?

    The answer to these questions varies from country to country, even city to city. So, when traveling to an unfamiliar area, ask for advice and research safe areas before departing. Plan to book a hotel or hostel in a part of the city considered safe – even if it means spending a few more dollars. The same goes for transportation – your family and friends will thank you for spending the extra money to get home safely.

    Become aware of current events that might impact your health and safety. Read the “what’s happening” information that your program or university provides. Keep up with current events by reading an international newspaper and, if possible, read local newspapers and magazines, too.

    Keep in mind that citizens of many countries take delight in engaging in heated discussions about politics and might want to debate with you about the U.S. military or politics. It can be easy to mistake their passionate talk for personal attacks, so if you feel threatened politely excuse yourself and move away.

    Another important caution: participating in a demonstration is never a good idea! It can be difficult to understand what is at stake, seemingly innocuous demonstrations can suddenly turn violent and, as a foreigner, you may become the target of hostilities. If you become caught up in a demonstration, move to the edge of the crowds and make a hasty departure. (You can read about it in the paper tomorrow.)

  • #2 – Communication

    Communication with home is a balancing act when you are abroad. It would be unfortunate if you spent all your time talking to mom and dad or friends back home, instead of immersing yourself in your new culture. On the other hand, uncertainty about your health and safety can cause parents or close friends a great deal of anxiety.

    GEO strongly encourages all students to arrange to have a phone while you are abroad. In some cases, it can be affordable to take your U.S. phone with you and add an international plan. In other cases, it may be more affordable to plan to purchase a cell phone or SIM card in country. Students should inquire with their program provider about which strategy will be most affordable.

    Once you have a phone, spare your close friends and family anxiety by making it a habit to check in regularly with them via WhatsApp, social media, text, or email. But in order to ensure you have time to enjoy your new culture, consider going old school and arranging to contact your parents just once a week. For many parents, simply knowing that you will call and that they can reach you at any time – day or night – reduces anxiety considerably.

    In a crisis, the first call or text should be to your program to let them know your whereabouts and if you are okay. They are the ones who can provide the best advice and support. After contacting your program, move to a safe location. Only then is it safe and appropriate to contact your family. Also, keep in mind that in a crisis the Global Engagement Office will be working to locate you to check on your health and safety. It may be difficult for us to track you down, so if you can contact us with an update, we would really appreciate it!

    Notify us if you have a concern about your safety, or just to say that things are fine. We appreciate hearing from students.

  • #3 – Cultural Common Sense

    Gaining cross-cultural understanding is one of the most important and profound learning experiences students have while abroad. And, students can apply their newfound cross-cultural understanding to help preserve their safety!

    The first point is to recognize that cultures are different, even if they appear similar. While all cultures value safety and stability, the ways they achieve it may vary considerably. Students can enhance their experience and personal safety by learning the answers to the following cultural questions:

    • What do people in this culture value most?
    • How are reputations made or ruined?
    • What behaviors, manners, or clothing blend-in and which demand attention?
    • How do people respond to uncertainty or difference? Are they open or do they feel threatened?
    • What are the cultural norms for alcohol in the host country?
    • What reputation do U.S. students have? Do my actions, behavior, and dress reinforce the negative or the positive?

    While off-campus put cultural understanding and common sense to use in your daily life. If the culture expects women to dress modestly, female students may be safer in-country if they adopt modest dress. If the culture has laws against LGBTQ people, they may want to refrain from public displays of affection. Even smiling and acting nice as we commonly do in the U.S. to strangers of all ages and genders can have a different connotation in another culture. You might be perceived as flirting or inviting sexual attention. Instead of acting on autopilot, observe how the locals behave and respond in different situations; learning to act in a similar way may increase your safety and the perceptions the locals have about you.

  • #4 – Wise Decision Making

    Many people are concerned about study abroad students’ safety and security – including parents and friends, GEO, the College of Wooster, the hosting institution, and people responsible for accommodations abroad. However, no one will be as involved or concerned as you, the student.

    Personal safety and security begin with the multitude of decisions each student makes on a daily basis. This includes the transportation methods you choose, whom you associate with, when and where you go out, how you respond to sexual advances, on so on. Keep in mind that no one can make these daily decisions for you. And this means that to a large degree, you – and only you – are responsible for your own safety.

    By far, the greatest threat to student safety involves alcohol. We all know that alcohol impairs one’s judgment, but in social situations we sometimes ignore the signs that we are becoming intoxicated and throw caution to the wind. Students used to drinking Bud Light may be caught off-guard by the much higher alcohol content of some foreign beers. Even a typical pint class can be a different size than in the U.S.

    Unfortunately, getting drunk abroad is dangerous. Talk to any study abroad director, and they will tell you that the most serious incidences abroad almost always involve alcohol. Therefore, we urge you to use your time abroad to learn to drinking responsibly. This is also a big plus, since many cultures look down on individuals who become drunk.

In this section we will be discussing alcohol consumption.  Be aware that many accidents and injuries involving students studying abroad occur as a result of alcohol and drug use.  To make the most out of your study abroad experience, limiting or avoiding alcohol may be your best choice.

For Each Country You Intend to Visit, Research Their Social and Legal Views on Alcohol Consumption.

Before studying abroad, research the country’s regulations regarding alcohol consumption.  The minimum drinking age may be different than in the U.S.  Also research the social expectations, health effects, and mental effects of drinking.  While drinking may be acceptable, being drunk may be deemed inappropriate and may get you into legal trouble.  It is also important to review your home campus and study abroad sponsor conduct rules in regards to alcohol consumption abroad as their regulations may be more strict than the local laws.

Know your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)

Please review this resource – CDC:  Alcohol and Public Health

Your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is the concentration of alcohol in your blood.  Always be aware of your BAC as it will help you understand how much you can drink before it begins to seriously impair your physical and cognitive abilities.  The effects of alcohol vary depending on age, sex, weight and genetic differences.  Look at the two BAC charts in the next section to see how alcohol consumption affects your driving ability and legal liability.  Print out and carry your BAC chart with you to better understand your limits before consuming alcohol.  The two charts in the next section have been created based on research by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and by the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.  For more information, see the website link above.

Know the Alcohol Content of Drinks

Beer, wine, and liquor in many countries have higher alcohol content than in similar drinks in the U.S.  Know the alcohol content of your drinks in order to manage your alcohol consumption effectively and to prevent potentially dangerous situations.

Be Aware of Your Drink at All Times and Do Not Accept a Drink from Anyone

As in the U.S., it is important to keep track of your drinks at all times, whether they are alcoholic or otherwise.  Also be sure to avoid accepting drinks from others, especially strangers.  There may be some unsavory individuals who will attempt to put drugs into your unattended drink, leading to extremely dangerous situations which can include robbery, date rape, or worse.  Do not let a night out become a disaster due to neglect or carelessness.

Be Aware of Sexual Risks While Abroad

Always consider the safety of the environment in which you are drinking. Laws regarding sexual harassment vary from country to country, and it may be difficult to defend yourself while under the influence of alcohol.  Social norms may also cause dangerous situations regarding sexual harassment when involving alcohol.  Increased independence, decreased supervision, foreign environment and increased consumption of alcohol all increase the potential for negative sexual outcomes. Understand your situation and make the best choices to make this study abroad opportunity both enjoyable and safe.

Understand the Consequences of Excessive Drinking

According research conducted by the Boston University School of Public Health, over 1,400 college students between the ages of 18 and 24 die every year due to alcohol-related incidents, including motor vehicle crashes.  Over half a million suffer injuries or have been assaulted by a person under the influence of alcohol annually.  In addition, over 70,000 are victims of sexual assault or date rape.  Understand the dangers of excessive drinking and make the best choices to avoid these harmful situations.

Know the Health Risks of Excessive Drinking

The risks of drinking abroad are the same as the risks of drinking at home.  However, know that medical care provided abroad is not the same as in the U.S., and may indeed not be of as high quality.  In addition, your insurance abroad may not cover accidents or injuries when excessive alcohol use is involved.  Know your limits and use your best judgement before drinking.

Use the Buddy System—Don’t Drink Alone

While studying abroad, you may not have the safety and comfort of having your friends and family nearby.  When going out, be sure to have at least one buddy (a classmate or friend) with you at all times to help support you in the case that you drink too much and your judgment is impaired.  In some cases, they can help protect you against others who have become too drunk or belligerent.

More Information on Alcohol Consumption

SAFETI Adaptation of Peace Corps Document Dealing with Alcohol

World Health Organization: Alcohol

Center for Global Education Home:  www.GlobalEd.us

SAFETI Clearinghouse:  www.GlobalEd.us/SAFETI

Student Study Abroad Handbooks:  www.StudentsAbroad.com

GlobalScholar.us Online Courses for Study Abroad:  www.GlobalScholar.us

The Center for Global Education (UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies) promotes international education to foster cross-cultural awareness, cooperation and understanding. Living and working effectively in a global society requires learning with an international perspective.

We promote this type of learning by collaborating with colleges, universities and other organizations around the world. Visit www.GlobalEd.us to view a vast array of international education resources for educators, students and parents.

Sometimes, despite their preparation, people find themselves in their host country feeling homesick, bored or withdrawn. They might spend all their time with Americans or people from their home country, avoiding the host nationals. They may drink, eat or sleep too much. They might feel hostile or critical of the host culture. They are experiencing what many people refer to as culture shock.

Culture shock is used to describe some of these more pronounced reactions to spending an extended period of time in a culture very different from your own. Not everyone will experience culture shock. But for those of you who do, it is helpful to be able to recognize culture shock when it occurs, so you can take appropriate action.

Adjustment to a new culture tends to occur in stages. Initially, there is a honeymoon phase. You are in a new country, and everything is exhilarating and exciting. Perhaps you’re involved in a flurry of orientation and getting settled, getting hosted around the town or city. The sights, sounds and tastes are all a new adventure. And, at first, you may even see more of the similarities between your host country and the U.S. than the differences.

However, after some time, you realize that things aren’t the same. Maybe you are tired of the food or struggling with the language. Maybe the university seems incomprehensible and bureaucratic. Maybe you are tired of long commutes whenever you need to go somewhere. Maybe everything is much more expensive than you anticipated. Or perhaps things are less expensive, but not of the quality or variety you appreciate at home. Your initial enthusiasm has drifted away and you have entered the stage of irritability and hostility. Worse, you may just feel like you don’t really belong.

Be patient. Almost always, these symptoms disappear with time and you will experience a stage of gradual adjustment. Your sense of humor will reappear. Things which seemed strange or just inconvenient will gradually become familiar.

Lastly, there is the stage of adaptation or bi-culturalism. You have finally arrived. You have managed to retain your own cultural identity but recognize the right of other cultures to retain theirs. You have a better understanding of yourself and others, and you can communicate easily and convey warmth and understanding across the cultural barriers.

There is no one way to experience culture shock. It may be acute or barely noticeable. You may find it returns once after you thought you had already passed through all the stages. If you are experiencing the irritability and hostility associated with culture shock, there are positive steps you can take and the sooner you take them, the better.

Culture Shock Do’s and Don’ts

  • Do be aware that culture shock exists, one way or another, it won’t last forever.
  • ​Don’t sit around being critical and negative.
  • Do plan fun things to do!
  • Don’t focus on bad things.
  • Do set goals for yourself.
  • Do look for the best in your situation.
  • Do enjoy the diversity of people and cultures.
  • Don’t be judgmental.
  • Do keep a journal.
  • Don’t think of yourself as strange and abnormal.
  • Don’t be offended by characteristics of the culture which are not polite or appropriate in the U.S.
  • Do try and keep busy.
  • Don’t immediately call/write/e-mail your family/friends to tell them how miserable you are. 

Remember that culture shock can be a very valuable experience, which can leave you with broader perspectives, deeper insight into yourself and a wider tolerance for other people.

Center for Global Education Home:  www.GlobalEd.us

SAFETI Clearinghouse:  www.GlobalEd.us/SAFETI

Student Study Abroad Handbooks:  www.StudentsAbroad.com

GlobalScholar.us Online Courses for Study Abroad:  www.GlobalScholar.us

The Center for Global Education (UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies) promotes international education to foster cross-cultural awareness, cooperation and understanding. Living and working effectively in a global society requires learning with an international perspective.

We promote this type of learning by collaborating with colleges, universities and other organizations around the world. Visit www.GlobalEd.us to view a vast array of international education resources for educators, students and parents.

Deciding to spend a semester studying off campus is an investment of your time and money, and you will want to make the most of it!  GEO encourages you to start thinking now about strategies that can help you maximize cultural learning – and minimize frustration – when you are in surroundings that are culturally different from those to which you are accustomed.
 
Read these scenarios that demonstrate some tried-and-true ways to maximize your culture learning!

  • Scenario #1

  • Scenario #2

  • Scenario #3

  • Scenario #4

  • Scenario #5

  • Scenario #6

  • Scenario #1 – Excluded in Ireland

    You are living with a host family in Ireland. They are very friendly, but every night after dinner they go into the living room and close the door behind them. You feel left out and wonder if you did something to offend them. What might you do?

    Try this strategy:

    DESCRIBE what is happening without making interpretations of why it is happening.In this case you could describe the situation as: My host family goes in the living room after dinner and closes the door behind them.

    ANALYZE without judging or interpreting – When we are facing something unfamiliar or that is different from our own cultural norms, we unconsciously tend to immediately judge and evaluate rather than reflecting on what we see or what actually happened. In this case an American student might immediately judge the host family’s behavior as rude: “My family would never close the door on a guest. That would be rude.”

    Instead, ask yourself if there might be other reasons they might be closing the door. For example:

    • Might they want to conserve the heat from the fireplace?
    • Might they think they are being too nosy and thus trying to make the house quieter so you can study?
    • Could there be another reason?

    If you can’t figure it out, ask the family or a cultural informant what might be going on. You would learn that without central heat, Irish families typically close the door of the room they are in to keep that room warm.

    EVALUATE: Once you understand that closing the doors is meant to keep the heat in, rather than to keep you out, you understand you are free to join them after dinner. In fact, they probably are wondering why you never seem to want to hang out!

    Congratulations! You are developing cross-cultural competence.

  • Scenario #2 – Jilted in Japan

    You are living with a host family in Japan. Your host sister’s birthday arrives, and you spend a long time picking out the perfect present for her. You want her to know how much you appreciate the warm welcome she has shown you. But, when you give your present to her, she thanks you but leaves it on her desk and says: “Let’s go have dinner!” She didn’t even open it and you wonder why. You thought she’d appreciate your gift. What might you do?

    Try this strategy:

    DESCRIBE what is happening without making interpretations of why it is happening.In this case you could describe the situation as: My host sister said thank you but didn’t open my gift when I gave it to her.

    ANALYZE without judging or interpreting – When we are facing something unfamiliar or that is different from our own cultural norms, we unconsciously tend to immediately judge and evaluate rather than reflecting on what we see or what actually happened. In this case an American student might immediately judge the host daughter’s behavior as uncaring or rude: “If someone gives me a gift, I would open it right away to show appreciation for their gift. If I didn’t it might hurt their feelings.”

    Instead, ask yourself if there might be other reasons they might not have opened the gift. For example:

    • Were they worried that you were already late for dinner, and they didn’t have time to open the gift?
    • Might they have been embarrassed because they didn’t give you a present on your birthday?
    • Might they be worried that can’t afford to repay the kindness?
    • Could there be another reason?

    If you can’t figure it out, ask the family or a cultural informant what might be going on. You would learn that gift giving in Japan is a complex and nuanced practice that goes beyond simply exchanging presents.

    It is culturally appropriate not to open a gift in front of the giver in Japan. Reasons for this are linked to cultural norms of not outwardly sharing one’s feelings. They might be embarrassed to show you their happiness with the gift, or worried to show negative emotion if they don’t find the gift appealing and embarrass you (or cause you to lose face).

    EVALUATE: Once you understand that it is culturally appropriate to open gifts in private and express appreciation at a later time (often by giving a gift to you), you will not be offended or surprised by your host sister’s behavior. You are learning to understand the nuances of culture.

    Congratulations! You are developing cross-cultural competence.

  • Scenario #3 – Chafed in China

    You are studying in China. After yet another conversation in which a Chinese friend seems to be speaking much more loudly than necessary, you catch yourself thinking, “Chinese people speak too loudly.” Then you think of your Chinese teacher whose voice is so soft you can barely hear her if you sit in the last row in class. What might you do?

    Try this strategy:

    DESCRIBE what is happening without making interpretations of why it is happening.In this case you might say: I am stereotyping Chinese people by saying they all speak loudly.

    ANALYZE without judging or interpreting – When we are facing something unfamiliar or that is different from our own cultural norms, we unconsciously tend to immediately judge and evaluate rather than reflecting on what we see or what actually happened. In this case, an American student who notices Chinese speakers speaking more loudly than an American might in the same situation could almost unconsciously judge a Chinese speaker’s loud voice as inappropriate or rude.

    Instead, ask yourself if there might be other reasons that some Chinese speakers might speak loudly. For example:

    • Are they in a noisy environment?
    • Are they afraid you won’t hear them?
    • Are they in a position of authority and supposed to speak loudly?
    • Could there be another reason?

    If you can’t figure it out, ask a cultural informant what might be going on. You would learn that In China people are used to nosy environments and being in large, dense crowds and traffic.

    The Mandarin language is a tonal language and Chinese people often are forced to talk loudly just to make themselves heard or even noticed. In private social situations, such as a person visiting someone’s home, loud voices can be an indication of cheerfulness, friendliness, and hospitality. Speaking loudly is a sign of confidence, and possible even honestly.

    EVALUATE: Once you understand that speaking loudly is not seen as inappropriate or rude in China, you realize that you are seeing the situation through your cultural lens. Instead, try not to be put off – they are not trying to be irritating, they are in fact being friendly. You can respond (loudly) in the same spirit of cordiality.

    And also remember the importance of using generalizations instead of stereotypes when you comment on people who are different than you.

    Congratulations! You are developing cross-cultural competence.

  • Scenario #4 – Frustrated in France

    You are doing an internship for a French company in France. Every day when you get to work everyone seems to expect you to say good morning to them. Walking around to all their workstations seems stupid when you just saw them yesterday. You don’t like to waste time! What might you do?

    Try this strategy:

    DESCRIBE what is happening without making interpretations of why it is happening.In this case you might say: In this case you might say: At the company where I am interning my French colleagues greet all their colleagues each morning.

    ANALYZE without judging or interpreting – When we are facing something unfamiliar or that is different from our own cultural norms, we unconsciously tend to immediately judge and evaluate rather than reflecting on what we see or what actually happened. In this case you might be jumping to the conclusion that your colleagues are wasting time by being cordial.

    Instead, ask yourself if there might be other reasons that they all greet each other. For example:

    • Is this just the expected norm if you want to be polite?
    • Might they be better friends with their business colleagues than we tend to be in the U.S. where private matters are to be kept out of the workplace?
    • Could there be another reason?

    If you can’t figure it out, ask a cultural informant what might be going on. You would learn that greetings are important in French culture and necessary if you want to make a good impression. Shaking hands, doing cheek kisses, or responding with a “good morning”, “thank you”, or “goodbye” demonstrates affection, friendship, and respect. This polite formality governs daily life.

    EVALUATE: Once you understand that greetings demonstrate respect and good manners throughout France, you can embrace this nice formality as a way to make your daily life and work experiences more personal. Taking the time for each other, slows us down in our otherwise hectic days.

    So, whether you are arriving at work, speaking to a clerk, or just bumping into someone on the street, take the time to say a polite bonjour before you proceed. You are recognizing that the French view politeness (in the form of greetings) as a prerequisite to getting a lot of work done!

    Congratulations! You are developing cross-cultural competence.

  • Scenario #5 – Stereotyped in Santiago

    After taking 10 years of Spanish classes, you are excited to be studying in Chile. You’re eager to use your skills! You start to notice that almost everyone either tries to speak to you in English or immediately tell you that they don’t speak English. Frustrated, you ask one of your Chilean classmates why this is happening. Your friend tells you that the people here probably assume that since you appear to be American, you only speak English. You’re annoyed. That’s so unfair! Not every American is the same! What might you do?

    Try this strategy:

    DESCRIBE what is happening without making interpretations of why it is happening.In this case you might say: In this case you might say that you’ve notice that the people you’ve encountered have the stereotype that all Americans only speak English..

    ANALYZE without judging or interpreting – When we are facing something unfamiliar or that is different from our normal lives, we unconsciously tend to immediately judge and evaluate rather than reflecting on what we see or what actually happened. In this case, you don’t need a cultural informant to see that now you are on the receiving end of stereotyping and are reacting similarly to how others act when they are stereotyped!

    Once you do a little research you will find that researchers say our brains are hardwired to create social categories that influence how we see others. BUT stereotypes can indeed prevent us from seeing the individuality of a person.

    Now, ask yourself…

    • What stereotypes do I have about the people in my host country? Are those stereotypes fair?
    • Are there people here I may have hurt or offended by assuming I knew things about them because of my stereotypes? Do I need to do anything to make things right with those people?

    EVALUATE: With this new perspective, you can start making distinctions between behavior that is personal (unique to the person), cultural (representative of the person’s culture), and universal (a shared human concern). Being abroad is the perfect time to start training your brain to think in this way!

    Understanding these distinctions can help you understand your own culture – and your host culture – a bit better and hopefully help you look more closely at your own stereotypes.

    Congratulations! You are developing cross-cultural competence.

  • Scenario #6 – Conspicuous in… Anywhere

    You are a person with fair skin studying in Ghana. Or you’re a person with darker skin studying in Hungary. (Or your hair is straighter, curlier, lighter, darker, longer, shorter, covered, uncovered; your body is bigger, smaller, taller, shorter – different.) It comes down to this: You look different from the locals, and they openly stare at you whenever you go out. It’s super annoying. You find yourself asking, “Don’t these people realize that it is rude to stare?” What might you do?

    Try this strategy:

    DESCRIBE what is happening without making interpretations of why it is happening.In this case you can say that your skin color makes you stand out and people are staring at you.

    ANALYZE without judging or interpreting – When we are facing something unfamiliar or that is different from our normal lives, we unconsciously tend to immediately judge and evaluate rather than reflecting on what we see or what actually happened. In this case, you find the attention unwanted – and rude. But do the locals mean to be rude? What else might be going on?

    Ask yourself if there might be other reasons that they stare at you. For example:

    • How often do people who look like you visit their area? Could they simply be observing your differences?
    • Can they tell you’re from somewhere else? Might that make them curious about how you’ll act?
    • Might they think you look like an actor they’ve seen on American movies?
    • Could there be another reason?

    Once you do a little research you will find that people often stare out of curiosity. We are all curious when we see something new or someone different. Although it can make us feel uncomfortable, people often do this by accident, without meaning to. Not everyone will have met or seen someone who has that particular visible difference before.

    EVALUATE: Once you understand that they might just be curious (as are you or you wouldn’t be studying off campus), you could think about how all people tend to be curious about new or different appearances, and that could help you re-frame the unwanted attention in a better light.

    Ways to Respond:

    • Look at the person who is staring at you and smile. Most people will smile back and then look away.
    • Look at them and raise your eyebrows or tilt your head as if to say: What are you staring at?
    • Strike up a conversation with them about something else. They are likely to quit staring.

    One day you might catch yourself staring at someone who looks different than you. In such a case, practice alternative behavior by looking for similarities as well as differences between people of different backgrounds.

    Congratulations! You are developing cross-cultural competence.

In Summary:

Employers indicate that cross-cultural competence – the capability to relate and work effectively across cultures – is one of the most important skills needed in the workplace.

Maximize your cultural learning while abroad so that your cross-cultural competence will stand out to future employers!

“Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry,
but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die,
it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other,
we may even become friends.”

– Maya Angelou, American poet and civil rights activist