Indonesian Exchange Student?
We are going to host a 19 year old exchange student from Indonesia for a few months. I've never been there and don't know too much about the country other then what I can read online/in books. Any pointers on the culture, cuisine of current social scene there?
Indonesia - 3 Answers
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1 :
A friend's family hosted an exchange student from Spain a while ago, and what we learned was that the student came ready to integrate herself into the American culture. Don't worry so much about making them feel like they're still in Indonesia, but making them feel welcome and comfortable here. Show them around, cook American meals, all while respecting the customs that he/she will share with you from Indonesia.
2 :
i agree with nerdlover's answer. Most Indonesian exchange students come to foreign countries with an attitude of ready to adjust and assimilate into the new environment, which means you don't really have to cook anything special for them, or treat them that differently. Just be courteous and welcoming. Some pointers: - Indonesians love to eat their food spicy though, so chili sauce (or sambal, you can find them in asian supermarkets) is going to be a good welcome sign. If your guest is Muslim, then you want to stay away from cooking pork and other non kosher food like crabs. - Don't label Indonesia the country or its people as terrorists, because majority of them are not. - Learning some basic Indonesian words like Selamat Pagi (good morning), selamat sore (good afternoon), selamat malam (good night), terima kasih (thank you), can be a good welcome sign as well. - Bali is a favorite topic to talk about, and you can find a wealth of basic facts about this island. I think the students would want to learn more about the country they're visiting, so feel free to expose them to that culture.
3 :
I came in to the States as an exchange student from Indonesia years ago. I lived for a while in a host family before moving into the college's dormitory. These are some of the pointers I'd like to share: 1. It's true Indonesia is a developing country, but we are not as uncivilized as some people might have think. Life is not far different there. We do have highways, know how to use microwave, watch movies in the cinema, and ride cars. We embrace and emulate Western culture, and take pride to be part of it. 2. We eat rice every single day, but we love American food!! Don't bother yourself searching for Indonesia cuisine recipe, instead do feed us with your favorite homemade dishes. We also love eating out to the restaurants (doesn't have to be fancy and expensive, but variety is always appreciated). 3. Related to the 2nd point above, do not try to cook our dishes. Please let us do it for you!! We are good cooks if we feel motivated. Do know that instant noodles and porridges are our comfort food. (just like McDonald's or Taco Bell for the Americans). They are not emergency items, but are best friends since kids. Don't be surprised, or feel offended, if we eat noodles as snacks. 4. We are very shy, can't hardly say "NO", but loves to smile. If we smile too much, then please talk a bit slowly. Chances are we can't keep up with you, and have no idea what you're trying to convey. 5. We love to be in a crowded place. Shopping centers and movies are cool places to hang out, but we do also take interests in museums, ball parks, beaches, etc. 6. We hate talking about religion, politics, current events, social issues, justice, or any other subjects in similar nature. We are not used to engage in "heavy" discussions, or if our views are challenged. Instead, let's talk casually. Let's share our family stories, hobbies, school projects, etc. 7. Lastly (and most importantly), please do keep in touch after we leave your house. You have made differences in our lives, and we don't want to easily forget you. Exchange phone conversations and emails; or to the very least, let's send each other holiday cards. Thanks for hosting!
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