Once the process of interviewing students, naming scholarship recipients and making school placements is completed is completed, there is an important preparation period prior to departure. All students participate in an orientation in their home country prior to leaving for the U.S.
Preparing students for their ASSIST year by helping them know what to expect - while they are away from family and friends studying abroad in a new and very different environment - has proven to be an important step for new students. It helps to facilitate early team bonding with other students and creates a sense of being a part of the larger ASSIST family of students, alumni, staff and volunteers.
As an example, Rosemarie Wegner, leader of ASSIST Germany, conducts a series of pre-departure orientation sessions that begin in May with a student's acceptance into ASSIST. The focus in the initial program is not only to introduce the ASSIST philosophy and expectations, but to cover practical details such as the visa application process, flights, money matters, insurance and home contact. In August, a final orientation is conducted in which last-minute travels concerns and questions are addressed and - a highlight for participants - new ASSIST students have an opportunity to meet alumni who have just returned from their ASSIST year. Experiences and stories are shared amongst the group, heightening expectations and excitement for the new students.
In some countries, members of the American diplomatic corps greet students and spend time acculturating and congratulating them. In Sofia, Bulgaria, ASSIST leader Lydia Dachkova organized a reception with Ambassador Pardew (see picture below).
As soon as students have accepted their ASSIST scholarships, there is an ASSIST Network to talk to alumni and ask questions. Students can also meet other successful candidates through this on-line forum, usually organizing early meetings amongst themselves. From the very beginning, students develop a sense of being members of the ASSIST family.
