Cultural Understanding

Have you ever heard of culture shock? How about homesickness? These are issues that you may face during your year in the U.S. Your CIEE Grants Local Coordinator is specially trained to help you and your host family deal with these and other problems that you may face. Additionally, the Support Team at CIEE are available to help you if your Local Coordinator isn’t available.

Another great resource available to you is the dedicated and knowledgeable staff of the Civilizations Exchange and Cooperation Foundation (CECF). CECF is a non-profit organization based in Baltimore, Maryland, which is dedicated to building understanding among different cultures and faith traditions. CECF currently provides a variety of services for CIEE staff and volunteers. CECF offers counseling, workshops, and conferences to develop understanding among youth studying in the U.S. CIEE holds a contest for students to attend the Better Understanding for a Better World leadership and interfaith conferences.

If you have questions about how to practice your religion in the U.S., or are having any difficulties with your practice, you are welcome to contact the Civilizations Exchange and Cooperation Foundation by phone at 410-944-6077 or email cecf1@aol.com or visit the CECF website.

“Many teachers asked
me to present about
my country throughout the whole year of high school. I presented about Yemen 13 different times and a lot of people liked it and students were very interested to hear about Islam, my culture, and our way of life. The students came to really respect my culture.”

- Hanan, YES Participant