James Madison University

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1 James Madison University Cross-Cultural Summer Program: US History, Culture, and Society Student Handbook Summer 2015 prepared by the Office of International Programs

2 Harrisonburg Harrisonburg is an independent city in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia, is home to James Madison University and Eastern Mennonite University. Previously known as Rocktown, Harrisonburg was named for Thomas Harrison, a son of English settlers, who settled in the Shenandoah Valley in In 1779, Harrison deeded 2.5 acres (10,000 m 2 ) of his land to the "public good" for the construction of a courthouse. In 1780, Harrison deeded an additional 50 acres (200,000 m 2 ). This is the area now known as "Historic Downtown Harrisonburg." Rockingham County Courthouse in Downtown In 1849, trustees chartered a mayor- council form of government, although Harrisonburg was not officially incorporated as an independent city until Today, a council- manager government administers Harrisonburg. Harrisonburg provides visitors with unimaginable culinary options, a flourishing arts community, endless outdoor adventures, a lively downtown and a diverse mix of performances, annual events and festivals. James Madison University James Madison University is a public coeducational research university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Founded in 1908 as the State Normal and Industrial School for Women at Harrisonburg. In 1914, the name of the university was changed to the State Normal School for Women at Harrisonburg. At first, academic offerings included only today's equivalent of technical training or junior college courses; however authorization to award bachelor's degrees was granted in During this initial period of development, the campus plan was established and six buildings were constructed. The university became the State Teachers College at Harrisonburg in 1924 and continued under that name until 1938, when it was named Madison College in honor of James Madison, the fourth President of the United States whose Montpelier estate is located in nearby Orange, Virginia. In 1976, the university's name was changed to James Madison University. The first president of the university was Julian Ashby Burruss. The university opened its doors to its first student body in 1909 with an enrollment of 209 students and a faculty of 15. Its first 20 graduates received diplomas in In 1919, Burruss resigned the presidency to become president of Virginia Polytechnic Institute. Samuel Page Duke was then chosen as the second president of the university. During Duke's administration, nine major buildings were constructed. In 1946, men were first enrolled as regular day students. G. Tyler Miller became the third president of the university in 1949, following the retirement of Duke. During Miller's 2

3 administration, from 1949 to 1970, the campus was enlarged by 240 acres (0.97 km 2 ) and 19 buildings were constructed. Major curriculum changes were made and the university was authorized to grant master's degrees in In 1966, by action of the Virginia General Assembly, the university became a coeducational institution. Ronald E. Carrier, JMU's fourth president, headed the institution from 1971 to During Carrier's administration, student enrollment and the number of faculty and staff tripled, doctoral programs were authorized, more than twenty major campus buildings were constructed and the university was recognized repeatedly by national publications as one of the finest institutions of its type in America. Carrier Library is named after him. In the 2000s, during the administration of fourth President Linwood H. Rose, the university continued to expand, not only through new construction east of Interstate 81, but also on the west side of campus. In 2011, the Board of Visitors unanimously selected Mr. Jonathan R. Alger to serve as the next president of James Madison University. Alger is now the sixth president of the university in its 107- year history. Alger comes to James Madison University by way of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, where he served as the Senior Vice President and General Counsel. Program Organization The Office of International Programs works closely with JMU professors, departments and the Harrisonburg community to create a program that offers an extensive academic and cultural curriculum. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from JMU faculty in a U.S. classroom environment and also the chance to get involved with local organizations. JMU Faculty The faculty comes from different departments, experiences, and backgrounds. The professors are very committed to teaching and research. The range of faculty is what makes this program unique and diverse. JMU Administrative Staff Mr. Felix Wang As the Director of Study Abroad, Felix is responsible for planning, coordinating and promoting study abroad programs and opportunities for JMU faculty, staff and students. A native of Taiwan, he spent most of his life in the Dominican Republic. He earned his B.B.A. and M.B.A from Campbell University in North Carolina and M.Ed. in College Student Personnel Administration from James Madison University. In addition, he serves as a liaison to JMU colleges and departments on international opportunities and initiatives. 3

4 Felix presents numerous workshops on diversity and internationalization on campus and abroad. Mrs. Diana Meza A native of Colombia, South America, Diana came to the United States as an exchange student during high school. As a result of her golf skills, she was recruited to James Madison University as a member of the women s golf team. While at JMU, Diana became the captain of the golf team and earned her Bachelor in Business Administration. Soon after her graduation, Diana worked briefly in the banking industry and retuned to her alma mater to pursue a Master s in Education in Adult Education and Human Resources. After completion of her master s program, Diana was hired to teach Spanish language, English to adult immigrants and courses in learning theories and diversity in education at JMU. In addition, she coordinates several academic programs for the university, which include several cross- cultural programs for international students and the JMU Dual Master s Degree with the University of Salamanca, Spain in Spanish Language and Culture. In her free time, she enjoys playing golf, reading and traveling around the world. Academic Content and Courses During the program at JMU, students will have a variety of classes and lectures offered JMU professors and guest speakers. Please be aware that the American traditional classroom consists of professor/student interactions, discussions, and group work. Some of the topics covered during the program are listed below: American Democracy, Culture, and Values The American People and Ideology Institutions of Government Civil Liberties America in the World and Current Events America a World of Difference Eight Critical Events in American History American Core Beliefs and Values American Political Beliefs and Values Religion and Moral Disagreements U.S. Immigration Policies World Politics American Families American Identity Technology Diversity 4

5 Housing Students will live on- campus in dormitories. Each room will be share by two students. For the students convenience, each room is equipped with linens and air conditioning. The dormitory is near by the dining facilities. Internet access Each student will be able to access JMU s Wi- Fi network. At arrival, students will be provided with the user name and password. Each student is responsible for bringing her own computer or electronic device. Meals Most of the meals will be on campus and provided by the program. JMU is ranked top 3 in the nation for its food! There are many places to eat within walking distance from the dormitory as well. During cultural excursions, the program will provide group meals or stipends for the East Campus Dining Hall students. Transportation Students are responsible for making all their own travel arrangements to Washington Dulles International Airport. Upon arrival, JMU will provide transportation for the group to Harrisonburg. Once the group is in Harrisonburg, staff from the Office of International Programs will meet the group and escort you to the dorm. During the program, all classes will be on- campus within walking distance from the dormitory. All students are expected to arrive at the designated meeting place on time. For organized activities by the program which location is not on- campus, transportation will be provided for the group. Cultural Excursions During the students stay in Harrisonburg, the program has organized different cultural excursions to enrich your experience in the U.S. Participation in all planned activities is mandatory. However, the program also allows the students to have free time to rest or explore at their own convenience. Students are expected to remain attentive during the excursions. 5

6 Community Outreach As part of the experience in the U.S. you will also have the opportunity to interact with the local community in Harrisonburg. You will work with children of different ages, culture, and background. In addition, you will meet different people from the Harrisonburg and JMU community. Recommendations The following lists of helpful tips may be helpful when your travel: DO Budget your money so you have enough funds for the program. Make sure that your ATM card and credit cards work in the U.S. Make copies of your passport and important documents. Keep your trip leader and JMU staff informed about issues. Be an ambassador of your university and home country. Keep an open mind as you navigate into a new environment and culture. Be patient as things might be different compared to your home country. Take advantage of what the program offers, reach out to new people, prepare to be challenged and ask a lot of questions. HAVE FUN! DO NOT Don t travel alone. Please travel in groups of at least two so you are with others that you know. Don t drink any alcoholic beverages if you are under the age of 21. It is illegal in the U.S. to consume alcohol if you are less than 21 years old. Don t engage in any illegal activities (drugs) and crimes, violation of local laws and JMU policies that might lead to jail time. Don t pack your whole room. Airlines have restrictions on the number and weight of luggage. Preparing for your trip What to pack? To avoid any problems when you check in for your flight, please remember a few important things. In general, you should try to pack light. Check the airline s policy for checked and carry on luggage. Remember to label your luggage. Put the address of the Office of International Programs (see page 8) on the inside and the outside of your bag in case it gets lost or is stolen. If it gets lost, it will be returned to your address in the U.S. Also carry a copy of your passport and any other important documents such as your credit card. If your passport and/or credit card are lost or get stolen, you are sure to have another copy handy. 6

7 It is important that you pack efficiently keeping the following in mind: Americans tend to dress less formal. There is no need to pack a lot of formal clothes. Bring some for special events such as visits to government offices or formal dinners. You will be able to do laundry in the dormitory. Also you want to make sure that you have any medicine that you will need during the duration of the trip. Toiletries- - shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.- - can be found at the grocery store. Bring something to take notes on during your classes. A notebook, notepad, or an electronic device will work. Try not to pack too many valuables in case your luggage gets lost or is stolen. Bring a comfortable pair of shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking! Bring a camera to document your experience Consider a travel alarm clock Bathing suit for the pool. Personal towels Flip flops for the shower Cultural adjustment The Director of Study Abroad and Program Coordinator are always available to lend a hand or listen to any problems you may have. It is important that the group maintains open communication and does not hesitate to approach them with any concerns. American culture can be different from student s home country such as personal space, greetings, conversation style and food. It s important to keep an open mind and try new things! 7

8 Important contact information Felix Wang Director of Study Abroad Office of International Programs JMAC 6, Suite Harrison Street Harrisonburg, VA Diana Meza Program Coordinator College of Education Memorial Hall, Room South High Street Harrisonburg, VA Office of International Programs JMU Police ABC Cab (taxi) Cell: Office: E- mail: Cell: Office: E- mail: