Kendra's Tips For Orientation

Guten Abend! I know I already posted today and I'll have to hear someone say again "you post a lot" but I have time right now so I'm gonna post as much as I want. :)

Now these tips are from personal experiences that would involve long paragraphs of explanation but I am just going to do bullet points and you'll love it because what I have in mind are kinda funny...or at least I think so....anyways if you are an AFSer as well and you don't agree with what I think...I really don't care we all have our own opinions and that's life. (that's not meant in an offensive way at all, so don't get your underwear in a twist) Now let's get started with the number one thing I have to say...it's really the only reason for this post:

DON'T ask questions trying to be funny or sound cool because 99.9% of the time...it's won't make you sound either way.

DO ask questions that you think everyone else is wondering about or you feel pertains to the actual discussion being held.

DON'T ask innapropriate things about drinking, smoking, drugs, or sexual actions...think it through first and make sure it sounds right to you.

DO make sure you are clear on the AFS rules and if you aren't ask a volunteer or the leader of your orientation.

DON'T talk obnoxiously to others around you while a speaker is talking (should be obvious right?)

DO pay attention to everything because it WILL help you out in some way I promise.

DON'T fall asleep in the middle of an information session, it makes you look uninterested in the program and really doesn't put you in the best light.

DO actually get sleep that one night even though talking to your roommate until 2:30 am will be tempting...you'll thank me later.

DON'T seclude yourself from everyone, I know for some people it's hard to put themselves out there but try because you'll be surprised at the people you'll meet.

DO introduce yourself and ask about those you are talking to, it makes you sound interested in the conversation even if you are completely homesick or tired.

DON'T think about what you are leaving behind.

DO think about the adventure you're about to embark on and how many memories and stories you'll be able to tell.

DON'T act immature, you want to reassure AFS USA in some way that you won't be giving the United States that bad of a reputation.

DO have fun and embrace every single minute.

DON'T just settle down with specific people right away.

DO get out and try to meet everyone even though it might be hard to do especially if you are going to Germany which had 91 kids this year.

DON'T act like you would at home alone.

DO show some class.

DON'T be that kid that shows off and shoves their language ability in others faces, only "help" when people ask.

DO pool your knowledge together with your friends and see if you can learn some new vocab!

DON'T get caught up on the small things that happen.

DO roll with the orientation even though some times it agonizingly slow and boring.

DON'T think no one is gonna like you because I promise there will be at least ONE person there for you!

DO eat even though you might not believe me now...you kinda get all caught up and don't really think about what you're doing and you forget that yeah you probably should have eaten that lunch.

DON'T make immediate stereotypes or generalizations.

DON'T ask questions that involve six beers.

DON'T go to Taco Bell.

and of course

"DO get in some foolishness, but don't tell anyone until you get back" - Darren


Frieden. Liebe. Brot.


xoxo


Kendra Rose