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?
Studying Abroad - 1 Answers
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wow, I am noticing that you do not have any answers, well I am not an expert on Indonesia, but I can tell you a few things Indonesia is a big country, like the US many different areas, differences, etc Most Indonesians are Muslim, it is the largest Muslim country in the world Indonesia (colonially) was linked to Holland. Indonesian people can travel to and from Netherlands without visa. I am assuming that you are in USA, they will have many preconceived notions about USA based on movies and TV shows probably more than anything else. Be aware that many nations screen their students quite rigorously for programs like this, and the individual might be under tremendous pressure to do well, represent their country in a good light, etc. You might have to reassure him/her that they can be themselves. Also they might be from extremely wealthy background (or politically connected) as some times people with some "pull" can get their children into the program more readily. If you are working with an organization to arrange the exchange study closely any hints and materials provided, they are probably pretty accurate, yet . . . Keep in mind that individuals will vary quite a bit from what is "typical" for any culture. If your student is trying to be a "good" Muslim during their stay then they will have to rise before dawn for first prayers. And not eat during Ramadan in Feb That is a really tough thing for a young person, not eating. They get cranky, as you might expect. You should rent an older movie (Mel Gibson & Sigourney Weaver were the leads) about the fall of the government in Indonesia in the 1960s. I wish I could remember the name of the film, it's a good flick and will give you background in recent history. Jakarta is an enormous city, like London, Tokyo, Mexcio City. Good luck!! I really wish you all the best, we are still close with our former exchange-daughter, 12 years later
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