Tips for Staying in Touch with your International Student

Dear parents and families,

Now that the spring term is in full swing, many parents and families are looking forward to an update from their student, while most students are too busy to begin thinking beyond their next class assignments. So here are a few tips for staying in touch with your student and helping them succeed.

• Set up a regular time to talk (via phone, Skype, text, WeChat, etc.). This is important as you can offer support for any ongoing struggles and celebrate their successes.
• Connect with our New Student and Family Programs Department. I know that you’ve done this because you are reading the newsletter, yet this is a good reminder that their office offers information about upcoming events, a comprehensive list of answers to frequently asked questions, and access to the student handbook. This handbook provides comprehensive information about college facilities, benefits, and policies.
• Chat with your student about studying at Berklee's campus in Valencia, Spain. Berklee offers a unique and robust study abroad experience on our Valencia campus, and students can participate in either short-term study during the summer or full-length semesters. They will earn credit for the courses completed in Valencia.
• Encourage your student to get involved with on-campus activities and clubs offered through Student Activities, including their opportunities for students who commute. It’s tempting for students to focus too much on studies and practice, practice, practice. However, education is about more than just books; it’s about widening your horizons and seeing the world through the experience of others. Student groups are a safe way to experience Boston and gain an understanding of the American way of life. Have your student select one or two organizations or clubs that interest them. This is a great way to meet students with similar interests and build relationships with them.
• If possible, have your student consider a break from studies during the summer. I’ve worked at Berklee for 15 years and have seen countless students who decide to attend spring, summer, and fall full time. Many of these students come to our office mid-November complaining that they cannot focus, are extremely tired, and feel a lack of interest in their projects. Taking a break allows students time to connect with friends and family in a non-stressful environment and revisit the reason for studying at Berklee. I understand that for many, the desire to finish quickly is the driving reason for attending multiple semesters in a row, but taking a break may lead to being in a physical and mental state that allows students to get the most from their classes.
• Don’t forget the immigration paperwork! We get heaps of emails over the summer from students who have left their form I-20 packed away in the U.S. or who departed the U.S. without requesting a traveling signature. Remind them to look at page 2 of their form I-20 to verify that they have a signature from an international student advisor that's dated (travel signatures are valid for 12 months of travel from the date signed). If the signature will be older than 12 months, have them come see us for a new signature.

Sincerely,
Andrea Tikofsky
Associate Director of International Student Services