By Dennis Oliver
American English and Culture Program
Arizona State University

Any international student who has been accepted for admission to a US college or university has already demonstrated a great accomplishment, for in doing so, many difficult challenges (such as proof of English proficiency, acceptable academic preparation, and the ability to survive financially far from home) have already been met.

Unfortunately, admission alone is no guarantee of academic success since there will be additional challenges, and perhaps many of them. These challenges can be more easily manage, however, if a few practical suggestions are kept always in mind.

First, a newly admitted international student should met with his or her academic advisor as soon as possible after arrival and carefully map out all requirements, term by term, for completing a given course of study. The class load attempted during the initial quarter or semester (or even the first year) is particular critical; time should be allowed for adjusting to a new (and perhaps strange) academic environment and for managing unexpected everyday challenges. To attempt too much too soon is likely to result in unneeded stress and greatly diminished chances for success.

Next, newly admitted students should become familiar with resources available at the institution and the community in which it is located. These resources include far more than the number of books in the institution's library. Such diverse offerings as student health-care facilities, counseling and tutoring centers, access to information technology, room and board options other than dormitories, possibilities for involvement in clubs and special-interest groups, and even leisure-time activities should be located at the earliest opportunity and used regularly.

Every US educational institution offers a wide variety or opportunities for making campus life a successful and enjoyable experience, but a bit of "detective work" may be necessary in order to learn what is available and to use it to one's best advantage.

Additionally, international students should make an effort, from the beginning, to become aware of the characteristics of US academic "culture." The classroom environment, for example, may seem very relaxed and informal, compared with the norm in the home country, and be interpreted as a suggestion that the instructor wants to be the student's friend or that class expectations are not high-both of which are misconceptions.
International students should also be aware that asking questions in class and working in groups are encouraged actively, and might, in fact, be valued more highly than passive absorption of knowledge. There may be other differences as well; if anything seems strange or unexpected, the best rule of thumb is to discuses the matter with the instructor during his/her office hours or to ask an American friend for an explanation.

Another key area is developing a realistic understanding of the amount of time which may be necessary for success in class. The time needed to remain current with reading and/or writing assignments is often, for example, greatly underestimated. Though meeting these challenges does become easier over time, each hour in class will generally require many hours of out-of-class preparation. A realistic understanding of the time needed for successful academic performance (even if it is at odds with when a student expects to complete graduation requirements and embark upon a career) is essential.