Welcome to Missoula and the United States!

Orientation Topics:

Program ObjectivesParticipant ResponsibilitiesProgram Documents and RegulationsFinancesHealth and Safety Transportation and CommunicationLodging/Host FamilyCultural ConsiderationsQuestions?

Program Objectives

General Program ObjectivesYour Professional and Cultural GoalsLong Term Expectations

The U.S. Department of State

Fulbright Hays Act of 1961

To increase mutual understanding between the people of the U.S. and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchange...and thus to assist in the development of peaceful relations between the United States and the other countries of the world.

Primary Program Objective

Teach emerging leaders how to engage in collaborative action to address women’s concerns that have economic and global repercussions, using technology as a tool.

Objective One

Provide you with an opportunity to gain knowledge of practices in the advocacy of women’s issues; explore governance principles and practices in both public and non-governmental institutions in the U.S.; and gain an understanding of U.S. society, culture and people.

Objective Two

Provide U.S. Fellows the opportunity to share their professional expertise with you and your colleagues and to gain a deeper understanding of the societies, cultures, and people of other countries.

Objective Three

Promote mutual understanding and lasting, mutually-beneficial partnerships between professionals and organizations in the U.S. and Asia.

Objective Four

Provide technology training on advances in technology, including mobile phones and social networks.

Action Plan Development

What is the Action Plan?Why an Action Plan?Plan preparation during orientation.Action Plan development during Fellowship.Refining the Action Plan on November 4.Implementing Action Plan in January 2013.Continued follow-up on Action Plan.

Attributes of a Participant

A self-directed professionalAble to work effectively in cross-cultural settingDemonstrated leadership abilitiesFlexible with expectations and reactionsWilling to share expertise and learn from hosts

Congratulations on being chosen!

Your Responsibilities

Present yourself effectively given the cultureUse your background knowledge to make the most out of your experienceUse your expertise to benefit local partnersBe actively engaged in new experiencesBe thoughtful in completing evaluationsRespond to my e-mailsConsider Phase Two in your home country

Team Approach

Participants, Mansfield Center, Local Partners, and U.S. EmbassiesCommunication and RapportOrientation and Wrap-Up ActivitiesProfessional Fellowship and AppointmentsCultural ActivitiesWashington AppointmentsAsia Program

The Importance of Communication

We are your support team: talk to us! Share your needs, your enthusiasm, your concerns.Support your fellow travelersWork cooperatively with local host

Immigration Documents

By signing the Terms and Conditions of the State Department, you have agreed to fulfill visa terms and program regulations.We photocopy your passport and visa to submit proof of arrival.Inform Deena of any situations that affect your ability to comply with program requirements.

Participant Consent/Release Form

Authorization to State Department to use your image or voice in regard to the program.If this is sensitive for you it is not required.

Finances/Per Diem

Please see day-by-day explanation.Covers food, tips, transport, laundry.Per Diem determined by cost of living.Consideration of home stay family expenses: since you receive funding for living expenses, please expect to pay for food, entertainment, and so on.

Cultural Allowance

Many cultural activities are already scheduled.In addition: $150 Cultural Allowance.This money is provided to you by the US Government to encourage you to participate in more activities: plays, movies, restaurants, and to buy books.

Health Care

Covered by health insurance. Keep your card with you.Not for pre-existing conditionsIf you have any health issues, talk to a member of your support team$15 co-pay per visitProtect your body: drink water, eat healthy food, and get sleepDress appropriately: use layers of clothing

Safety Considerations

Call Deena or program team for any reasonIn true emergency, call 911Use common senseDo not share cell numbers or private information with strangersCultural Context/SensitivitiesTraffic and Crime: Minimal!Water, Altitude and Heat: Drink lots of water!Differences in temperature: dress in layers

Transportation

Holiday Inn Shuttle: 721-8550If you travel to/from a program event, we pay the tips.If you call the shuttle, you pay the tip: $1-2 per person per trip.During Fellowship, coordinate with your partner.When traveling by air, stay with the group. Very short layover.

Communication

No SIM cards available in Missoula.Purchase international calling cards at Albertson’s or other local store.Skype best method of communication.Internet in your room or can also use hotel computers for e-mail.

Hotel Lodging

Holiday Inn: two Fellows per room. If you switch roommates, please let me know your new room number.In Washington, two Fellows per room.Where possible, partnered by country given different early morning departures.If you have any concerns about rooming arrangements, talk to us.

Host Family Lodging

A rare opportunity to learn how an American family livesAmericans generally do not have maids, so please help with cooking and cleaning.Be honest with the family about your feelings.Ask if you need anything.If you’re cold, talk to them about the heating, blankets, and clothing.Pay for your meals and outings.Talk to your partner or Deena if you need to.

Cultural Considerations

Representing yourself and your countryConcept of timeConcept of face is different in the US – anger, directness, assertiveness, and the word “no”Non-verbal cuesSocial Etiquette: openness, questionsMulti-ethnic societyDiscussions on politics, race, religion

Culture ShockBe aware of the reactions of your body and mind to a new culture. Reflect on issues of sleep, food, cold, communication, and cultural adaptation.Focus on new experiences to counter homesicknessUse your support team to talk about new and confusing issues.Consider Reverse Culture Shock when you return home.

Questions?

We are here to support you and provide you a life-changing experience.

Thank you for taking time away from your family and your work to be with us!