Lessening The Shock

It can be seen, then, how this first attempt was made at lessening the shock of settling down in a new culture. However, the understanding of a new culture can only come with time, and it would be ludicrous to pretend that in the space of a month a person who is really a stranger to New Zealand life and customs—and language—can be transformed into a person completely at home here. This adjustment is a personal concern and can only be achieved by means peculiar to each individual. There can be no model answer, but a scheme such as the Summer School does provide the Asian student with a foundation. He no longer finds himself, as many of his forerunners have, floating In a void with no landmarks except students of his own nationality, people often equally adrift and homesick. It does allow the student to air his difficulties in an atmosphere of tolerance and interest. He can organise his thoughts and attitudes, and he no longer has to rely solely on the reports of senior Plan students.