Cultural and Social Adjustment

Because CIEE High School Grants students come from diverse economic, religious, and political backgrounds, and many Grants students come from developing countries, administrators should be prepared for possible challenges with their enrollment and adjustment to school in the U.S.

One of the challenges when enrolling a Grants student from a developing nation is that the process may take longer than anticipated, due to varying levels of socio-economic development and in-country infrastructure. We ask you to be understanding of these factors as you will be giving a Grants student an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study at your school.

It’s important to connect with your student’s Local Coordinator if you have any questions about how to best support your Grants student in their adjustment to your school. CIEE Grants Local Coordinators receive ongoing training and support from CIEE to meet the needs of your school and families currently hosting our students. For example, YES students who observe Ramadan may face questions from teachers and classmates about their associated practices. By working with your Local Coordinator, you can learn more about how best to engage your Grants student in dialogue about his/her religious observance.