WHAT are the chances that if you send your children to study in the United States, they could end up losing their cultural identity? Not much, according to a visiting American professor who held a workshop in Jeddah last Wednesday for Saudi students preparing to study in the US, and their parents. ‘“People sometimes wonder if students will lose their culture, religion or values when they come to the US,” Prof. Gary Weaver said in response to a parent's question about whether his son might become confused about his Saudi identity while in the US. Dr. Weaver, who is the executive director of American University's Intercultural Management Institute (IMI), explained that studying in the US would likely reinforce the young man's understanding of his Saudi identity. “I can tell you as a professor at a university with many international students – including many Saudi students – that often being in a different culture makes the students more aware of their own culture and religion,” said the professor who frequently lectures on intercultural relations. “So not only do they learn about a new culture, but they become even more appreciative of their own culture, religion and values,” he said. Since 2005, the number of students from Saudi Arabia studying in the US has increased significantly. Because of the heightened interest by Saudi students, the US Consulate General in Jeddah organizes and participates in many events to provide information and support to students planning to study in the US and those considering it for the future. Prof. Weaver's workshop entitled ‘Understanding American Culture: Cross-Cultural Communication and Adaptation' was geared towards adapting to new cultures and coping with culture shock,. The event also included a discussion about living and studying at US universities, and a brief session explaining important considerations for student visa holders. Prof. Weaver told the students that learning to adapt to a culture different from their own would be part of their education in the US. While they would learn a great deal about America and its people, they would also learn more about themselves, he said. “What is the value of an international experience? One thing that will surprise you is how, by being in a different culture, you will become more aware of your own culture and more aware of who you are – your values and identity,” he said. The professor encouraged students to reach out and make new friends, even if their language skills need improving. “No one will laugh at you, and it's the only way you will really get to know the country and people.”
