Welcome International Students!

On behalf of the Counseling Center staff at Bryn Mawr College, I would like to welcome you to the campus. Studying abroad is an exciting adventure as well as a major life transition. For many of you, this is the first time away from home. While you may be looking forward to all the opportunities that come with living in foreign country, you may also feel apprehensive about the many unknowns.

All new students first few weeks at Bryn Mawr College are one of adjustment. For international students this can be even more pronounced.  Experiencing sharp changes in values and communication patterns, as well as being without your customary network of support like your parents, siblings and friends can be challenging.  At the same time you are managing these sources of stress, you may also be trying to fill out countless forms, attend your classes, maintain your academic performance, make friends, and figure out what to eat in the dining halls. Like a juggler in a circus, you have many items to keep in the air. 

When you lived at home, you may have had many helpful strategies to deal with difficult situations but these may not be available to you now. Fortunately, there are many people in the BMC community who are available to help with forms, to help with housing concerns, untangle misunderstandings, answer questions, and offer support. Taking advantage of these resources should ease your adjustment significantly. We would like to let you know that we are just one of the resources available to you.  You can come to the Counseling Service to talk with one of the counselors; no problem is too big or small.

In the past, international students have talked about:

....wanting to clarify American customs

....being afraid that their English is not good enough

....worrying about being a failure or disappointment to their parents

....feeling homesick

....experiencing culture shock

....feeling upset over the break-up of a relationship

....feeling conflict regarding their own needs versus those of their parents/family

....having difficulties getting up and going to classes because of feelings of sadness

....having problems with eating, body image and self-esteem

....feeling afraid that others don't like them

Sometimes when a person talks to a counselor in other countries, it may mean that a person has a "big" problem. However, it does not mean the same thing in the U.S. Here it is quite common that a person consults with a counselor. Most people actually believe it is a ‘good thing' and that to consult with a counselor demonstrates strength and courage rather than weakness. Talking to a counselor is a way to take care of oneself and potentially prevent physical and mental health problems.

Personal preparation begins with you making sure you are eating adequate meals, getting enough exercise and rest to function well. Look for ways to meet people. Interacting with people within the college community will help to ease your adjustment. Although it may be difficult at first, nothing can be achieved without trying. Hall teas, student organizations, social activities, departmental events, and other activities are all good places to meet others.

The staff at the Counseling Services hopes this information is helpful and that above all, you will relax and take time for yourself, even in the labor of your class work. Do things you consider enjoyable, things that support your good view of yourself and your abilities. Remember that stress can be a sign of challenge and growth. However, if the stress of adjusting begins to interfere with your studying or your ability to socialize, don’t hesitate to call 610-526-7360 to make an appointment to talk with one of our counselors between the hours of 9a-4p Monday-Friday. We are located on the lower level of the Health Center. The service is strictly confidential and students may use up to six counseling visits at no charge.  If you’d like more information, be sure to stop by the Counseling Service to speak with one of the staff or view our webpage at http://www.brynmawr.edu/healthcenter/counseling/.

Here’s to a great year,

Bryn Mawr College Counseling Services Staff