This handbook is dedicated and directed toward you as the host family of a student from Malaysia. You are one of the indispensable ingredients required for an international exchange program to be successful.
By being aware of the cultural differences and by learning how to deal with these differences, you can make a positive impact on your student’s experience and on your student’s relationship with your family. This handbook is designed to help you learn about both the Malaysian and U.S. cultures through understanding the major differences between the two cultures. It is organized according to the following topics:
- Community Life – Malaysian life is very community-centered; this section will explain how your Malaysian student perceives community and how you can help with the adjustment process into your community.
- Personal Life – Your Malaysian student’s core values and private customs will affect how you relate to each other. This section discusses basic communication styles, religions, personal hygiene and sensitive topics.
- Family Life – Family plays a central role in community activities and personal life. Learn how your Malaysian student may think about and communicate with his or her family as well as strategies for integrating your student into your own family.
- Teenage Life – The way teenagers interact is affected by culture. This section shows Malaysian expectations for social life with his or her peers.
- School Life – School and study in other countries varies widely. In this section, you will learn how to help your student adjust to the education environment in the U.S.
In familiarizing yourself with this handbook, it may be helpful to focus first on areas of special interest to you and your family. While your student is here, we encourage you to refer back to the handbook as a guide for topics and situations that arise.
Click here to access the handbook.