Experience the Washington State Fair in Puyallup: A Fun Guide for International Students

Hey Lutes! The Washington State Fair in Puyallup is one of the biggest fairs in the U.S., and it offers a fantastic opportunity for international students at PLU to experience local culture, enjoy thrilling rides, and discover new events. Whether new to the area or looking for a fun fall activity, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Fair Schedule

Mark your calendars for the Spring Fair in 2024, which will take place over two weekends: April 11–14 and April 18–21. This is a fantastic event to enjoy all your favorite fair activities like thrilling rides, adorable farm animals, and, of course, the signature fair food. It’s open most days, but hours may vary, so check the schedule on the fair’s website for specific opening and closing times. Be sure to plan your trip in advance, so you don’t miss any of the exciting events!

Storage information for your luggage during summer!

Hello, it's Luna. Are you ready to go back to your home in the summer? Or are you traveling to another country? The finals are not over yet, but the exciting season is coming! If you don't have any plans yet, I hope you make a great plan after the finals. Today, I'm going to talk about the storage information provided by the campus. If you live on campus during the 2024 fall semester, you can use each resistance hall's storage. If it's hard to carry all your luggage to your home, this would be a good option for you.

Rules of Campus Life Storage Room

• Residence Hall’s RA staff(s) are responsible for maintaining Resident and RA storage procedures during move in and move out. 
• Storage rooms containing shelving MUST have all items stored on the shelves. Refrigerators may be stored on the floor.
•  All items must be clearly labeled with the students name and contact information. Each item must have a fully completed storage label.
• Items may not have more than one storage label on them while in storage.
• Campus Life Staff will complete a Storage Room inventory of all halls after Fall and Spring openings. Any item(s) with a storage room sticker older than one academic year and/or any unmarked items will be disposed of either through surplus or environmental services.
• No access will be granted to resident or RA storage during the summer, no exceptions.

Checking Items Into Storage Policies

• Storage space is on a first come, first serve basis. 
• Students in possession of a future housing assignment at the time of storage, should store their items in the hall they are assigned to for the next academic period.
• Students may not move other student’s belongings in order to make room for their own.
• Items must be picked up within one year of going into storage. 
• Items may only be stored if the student is departing campus and may not store items while actively living in residential housing.

Picking Items Up Policies

• All items must be picked up when checking items out of storage.
• Students may not re-store containers or boxes in storage rooms after unloading items. 
• If the person picking up storage items is not the student who put items into storage, Campus Life must have written permission from the item owner for a proxy to pick up items on their behalf. 

Unacceptable Items

• Carpets or Rugs, even if properly sealed.
•  Electronic equipment, including but not limited to: televisions, gaming systems, speakers, etc.
• Furniture, including but not limited to: lamps, desks, chairs, mattress pads, etc. 

Acceptable Items

• Items MUST be contained in a box, not to exceed 24x18x24.
• Boxes must be sealed with packing tape and labeled properly with Campus Life supplied labels. 
• A maximum of 4 items/boxes is allowed per student.
• Luggage is permitted if sealed and labeled properly.
• Mini refrigerators are permitted if cleaned and labeled properly. 

For more information, please refer to this link. I hope it helped you and enjoy your summer!

- Luna

What I've Learned Throughout the Four Years in PLU

Hand-made stole for BBA!

Happy Wednesday! This is Rei, I hope everyone is doing well with life and everything else. We are now in May, which means that final exams and summer break is just around the corner. Congratulations on almost finishing up another school year! For me, as a senior year student, I just finished my Capstone presentation (senior project) yesterday and it means that graduation is less than a month away! I've spent four years of college at PLU living on campus, since Fall 2020 to this Spring 2024. For my last blog, I would like to share 5 things in total I've learned during my four years of college life with some of the graduation pictures I've got with my roommate. I hope it will be beneficial to those of you who have a few years left in PLU! 

Life Tip - inside of College

1. Time Management is everything

You probably have heard this a lot from your parents, professors, and etc., but this is true! In college, especially if you live on campus, a ton of planning will take place. I would say, if you figure out how you manage your time schedule, you win the game. And most importantly, utilize your Google Calendar! She has been my best friend ever since I've started using her, managing my schedule, share some activities' schedule with my friends/professors. I personally prefer the online calendar form because they visualize my plans well and let me think what I can do during the time I don't have anything, just makes me productive! 

2. Do not compare yourself to others, compare yourself to you in the past

Sometimes, comparing with someone else can be a motivation to do something better. I would say this is a recipe for unhappiness. In a different words, Social Comparison gives you a sense of rush, stress, and negative feeling eventually. Especially for those of you who are from outside of Unites States, living away from your family, you are already doing amazing! You should be proud of yourself from just breathing in the different country from where you are from. There was a time I was disappointed/stressed to myself that I was taking a longer time than other students to understand and complete all the things I had to get done. After keep feeling stressed, at one point, I stopped thinking of things that way and started to think it's okay to not be capable of doing everything at 100%. No one in this world is perfect so I should focus on myself rather than comparing myself to others. As long as YOU know what you like about yourself, your weakness and are trying to improve them, you will be the best version of yourself by the time you graduate from college. 

3. Be adaptable to the culture here, but still be yourself

What I found most important is not trying to be someone else even in the new country with new surrounding environments. Adapting to the culture of where you are at is great, and it can be a main goal of studying abroad for some of the international students. And PLU has a variety of opportunities for you to absorb new cultures, new values, with new people. However, learning new things does not mean you are being away of how you are used to be. For instance, your English will probably improve year by year as you continue studying in the United States, but there is no need to change your 'personality.' How you feel about certain things, how you behave towards others, and how you are, are all core things about yourself that you should not ignore. 

A little pretty path right next to Hauge Admin Building! 

Life Tips - outside of College

1. Always have a Plan B (and Plan C if needed)

I love United States, I love how people are friendly, and I appreciate that I was able to study in this country for four years. One aspect of culture that we have here that I learned was people are loose on time, compared to my home country - Japan, at least. Let's say you order something online for a certain event, but you have to order really ahead of time to ensure that whatever you are ordering will arrive before the event you have. Thus, again, managing your schedule and doing things ahead of time is key. Living in the United States for four years really trained me in the aspect of this, which I appreciate. If I kept living in Japan for my entire life I wouldn't know how to manage these things. I believe these skills will help you a lot not only when you are in college but also once you start working in the future no matter what country it will be. 

Some lavenders at PLU Golf Course

2. It is normal that things change - friendship, environment and yourself

Not just during the years in college, but if you are living your life, things change gradually and suddenly at the same time. Maybe it's a good change, sometime it can be changes you did not expect it to be. You might have a breakdown caused from these changes - yet, it's okay! Everyone has experienced this all the time. How I cope with any big negative changes of my life is to think my life as a roller coaster. I know it sounds weird but I believe that when something negative happened, that means something better is coming after, as the roller coaster goes up after they fall down. You will never be stuck in your down-bad moment, so might as well enjoy the process of going to the positive phase! Something I appreciate about the US culture is that people are open to share what happened to them even though it is something that affects them negatively. People share when and why they cried, felt sad/angry, how they felt about it, and people are willing to listen. Talking it out with others is definitely a life tip when it comes to handling your changes and people are more than happy to help! 

And these were all I could think of as of now! Looking back over the past four years, there have been ups and downs, but I believe it has been an unforgettable period of my life and I have learned tons of life skills. I am so grateful to have met Heather and Brandon, International Services, and all of the international students. I hope that you, the international students reading this, whether you are a prospective student or a current student, will be glad that you chose PLU when you graduate as well! 

Until next time,

-Rei 

Exploring the Charms of Tacoma, Seattle, and Beyond

SUMMER IS ALMOST HERE Y'ALL! Whoo!

 
It's Biruktawit Tesfaye here and I'm excited to show all the places in Tacoma and Seattle you can visit.  

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Tacoma and Seattle offer various of cultural delights, natural wonders, and urban adventures for PLU students to explore. From the iconic Space Needle to the serene beauty of Mount Rainier, this region beckons with its diverse attractions and vibrant atmosphere. So, let's embark on a journey to uncover the hidden gems and must-see sights of Tacoma, Seattle, and its surroundings.

Here are a few places to visit in the Summer:

Space Needle (Seattle)

No visit to Seattle is complete without a trip to the Space Needle. Iconic and unmistakable, this architectural marvel offers panoramic views of the city skyline, Puget Sound, and the majestic Olympic Mountains. Whether you're dining at the revolving SkyCity restaurant or braving the thrilling glass floor observation deck, the Space Needle promises an unforgettable experience. Wonder here.

Join International Student Services for a trip to the Space Needle!

 

 

Date: Saturday, May 4th

Time: 11:00am - 3:00pm

Where: Meet at the Harstad entrance closest to the street at 11am
Cost: FREE! (ISS will cover the Space Needle ticket cost)
 

How to Reserve your Spot: There is a paper sign-up sheet in the International Student Center in Harstad Hall. Please come and write your name down to save your seat.
There are only 10 spots available, so sign up early!
Please email Abel at legessaw@plu.edu if you have any questions about this event.

Museum of Glass (Tacoma)

Located in Tacoma's Museum District, this contemporary museum showcases stunning glass sculptures, installations, and live glassblowing demonstrations. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of renowned artists or even try your hand at glassblowing under expert guidance.

For more info visit

 

 

Pike Place Market (Seattle)

Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operated public markets in the United States. Explore a labyrinth of stalls offering fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and delectable treats. Don't miss the chance to snap a photo with the beloved bronze pig, Rachel, or witness the famous fishmongers hurling fish at Pike Place Fish Market.

For more info visit

 

 

Mount Rainier National Park 

Escape the urban hustle and reconnect with nature at Mount Rainier National Park. Just a scenic drive from Tacoma or Seattle, this sprawling wilderness boasts snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and alpine meadows ablaze with wildflowers. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on trails ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging summit climbs.

Explore here first

No, you do not have to own a car to explore all these places which is why Seattle's and Tacoma's public transit is here for you. It's efficient public transportation system, including buses and light rail, makes it easy to navigate the city without a car. Consider purchasing a regional transit pass for unlimited rides on buses, trains, and ferries, allowing you to effortlessly explore Seattle and its surrounding areas.

Tacoma, Seattle, and their surroundings is surrounded by a wealth of attractions and experiences waiting to be discovered by YOU! Whether you're marveling at the futuristic skyline from the Space Needle or immersing yourself in the tranquility of Mount Rainier's wilderness, this dynamic region promises adventures to suit every taste and interest. So, grab your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant heart of the Pacific Northwest. Visit the official website here to get more info.

 

See you with another blog,  

Biruktawit Tesfaye

Understanding the U.S. Education System: Key Differences for International Students| Part 2

Biruktawit here with another blogggg! Whooo!
 

This blog is a continuation of  Understanding the U.S. Education System: Key Differences for International Students so if you have not checked that out, here's where you can find it. 

What part of the first blog you found interesting? Comment down below.

 

 

In the previous blog post, I had explored in detail the U.S education curriculum and course selection and grading and evaluation. In part 2 of this blog, I am going to continue to help you understand the U.S education system by specifically looking at the education structure, classroom dynamics, campus life and support services as well as cultural adjustments.

Education structure

Understanding the education structure is pivotal for any international student. In the U.S., the system is divided into levels: elementary school, middle school, high school, and higher education (college or university). However in this section, we'll focus on the college level. 

Classroom dynamics

Classroom dynamics in the U.S. differ from many other countries. Active student participation is encouraged, with discussions, group projects, and presentations being integral parts of the learning experience. Professors often serve as facilitators, fostering an environment where critical thinking and creativity are valued. I understand that you might be the silent observer and prefer listening to lecture rather than actively participate but I guarantee that the benefits are rewarding. 

Colleges and universities offer diverse academic programs. Understanding the distinction between community colleges and four-year institutions is crucial for making informed decisions about one's educational path. 

 

 

Campus life and support services 

Embarking on the college journey in the U.S. extends far beyond the classrooms. Campus life is vibrant, with a myriad of clubs, sports, and cultural activities. Support services, such as career counseling, health services, and academic advising, play a pivotal role in ensuring students thrive both academically and personally.

 

 

 

Cultural Adjustments

Perhaps one of the most significant aspects for you as an international student is adjusting to a new culture. From communication styles to social norms, embracing these differences can be both challenging and rewarding. In this section, I'll explore strategies to navigate cultural adjustments successfully.

Understanding and adapting to a new academic and cultural environment can present unique challenges for international students. It's natural to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty as you embark on this journey. Embrace the opportunity to broaden your horizons and explore new perspectives. While it may take time to adjust, remember that you're not alone. Seek out support from fellow students, faculty members, and campus resources to help navigate the unfamiliar terrain. With determination and a willingness to learn, you'll gradually acclimate to your new surroundings and thrive in your academic pursuits.

So, fellow international students, embrace the journey with open arms, savor every moment of cultural exploration, and remember to laugh, learn, and celebrate the wonderful tapestry of diversity that makes our world so beautifully unique. Here's to the exciting chapters ahead and the endless possibilities that await us on this global academic odyssey!

Why don't you have a wonderful experience working in PLU?

Hello, it's Luna. This is my first year in PLU, and last fall was my first semester. While taking classes full-time, I had quite a lot of free time except for exam weeks. Especially, I think I had more time because I lived on campus. Since it was my first semester, I have had few chances to meet new friends. If you have time and want to experience more and make money at the same time, I highly recommend you to have an on-campus job! 

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Why do we need to work on campus?

1. Are you bored? Do you have time? Try getting a job. Working is a great opportunity to make friends and communicate with the staff at school.
   
   
2. You can have a variety of experiences and earn money. The time to work for international students is limited to 19 hours per week though. Nevertheless, it is enough to earn extra money.
   
   
3. Good for your resume! Since it's a responsible job, it's very appropriate to write in resume. You can have various school experiences and use them for interviews or personal statements. It would be nice if it's related to your major, but it's totally fine if it isn't!

How to get a job on campus

1. First of all, finding a job that is available to register.
   PLU Student Employment Website
   Opportunities Board 
   You can also access the opportunities board through an app called 'Symplicity'. I recommend setting notifications with the 'PLU' keyword in this. It will notify you by email when something new comes up.
   
   
2. Create and upload a resume. Usually, only a resume is required, but certain jobs sometimes require a simple personal statement.
   Career Support
   
   
3. Schedule an interview. Interview schedules are usually sent by e-mail, so make sure to check your e-mail carefully whether it is in spam mail.
   (I'll talk about the interview in another post next time)

Things to do after you pass the interview

Since we are international students, there is some additional paperwork that needs to be done when working on campus. For example, making SSN, filling out paperwork in the study employment center, and making a food worker card for food-related work. The manager will additionally organize and send you an e-mail. For your information, once you make SSN, you can use it for a lifetime. The whole process is not difficult, so you don't have to worry too much.

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Lastly, we came to the U.S. far from home, and while studying alone, we can feel homesick or lonely. Also, there are times when you feel really alone in an unfamiliar environment. I think the more time you spend alone, the more bad thoughts you will have. So I highly recommend that you work on campus at least once, even if it is not necessarily for money. If you are worried about the language, I think you should try to work more. Then, not only will the range of English you use be wider, but you will also have more environment to use English than when you are alone, so it will be of great help to improve your language skills. I hope everyone can get various experiences in PLU!

- Luna    

REC for Domestic Travel Destination - Albuquerque, New Mexico

Hi everyone, this is Rei! I hope you are doing well:) I just got back from Albuquerque, New Mexico, since I got chance to visit my boyfriend who is studying abroad just like us in University of New Mexico! Since I still have some fresh memories from there, I would like to share how it looks like over there and also, what to prepare for domestic flights in case you already got a plan for Spring break or anytime soon! 

White Sand National Park

Where is Albuquerque, New Mexico? 

Albuquerque (also known locally as Duke City or ABQ) is the largest city in New Mexico and the 32nd largest city in the United States with a population of 559,277 as of 2016. Founded in 1706 as Albuquerque, the city is characterized by a mix of European, Hispanic, and Native American populations and cultures!

Places to Visit in New Mexico:

1. White Sands National Park 

This place was one of my favorite parts of the visit! At 275 square miles, White Sands National Park is the largest area of gypsum dunes in the world, and it looked and felt like a completely different planet. The powder-white dunes look like mountains of snow, and you can hike, sled down, even enjoy picnic any time of the year. The park is also apparently famous for its handful of white-colored animals, including rats, lizards, crickets, spiders, and moths, which have changed to a lighter color over time to adapt to their environment.

2. Old Town Albuquerque

With its winding narrow streets and adobe architecture, Old Town Albuquerque offers a small town and uniquely colorful neighborhood experience. Although much has changed since its founding in 1706, this dynamic tourist destination has remained the heart of the city. Despite its small 10-block radius, Old Town is packed with more than 150 privately owned restaurants and boutiques. The city also hosts more than 40 events a year, including the world-famous Ballon Fiesta Week! 

3. Sangre de Cristo Mountains 

While I caught glimpse of many volcanoes from my stay in Albuquerque, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains seem to have something for everyone, including scenic trails for hikers of all experience levels. Explore aspen, ponderosa, and pinyon juniper forests and meadows of colorful wildflowers, and take in breathtaking views from ridge-lines and summits. For those of us who spend time with nature in Washington State, experiencing the nature of each state will be a fun part of our trip. 

Although my visit was a short one-week one, I immediately felt the difference in climate between Washington State and New Mexico when I arrived at the airport. New Mexico is located at a higher elevation and has a dry desert environment where you can wear short sleeves during the day even in February. Coming from Washington, where it rains every day, I was exposed to such strong ultraviolet rays that my eyes would turn red in the afternoon form the sunlight during the day. 

Lastly, I forgot to mention one of New Mexico's most important attractions - Mexican food! In New Mexico, where the Mexico-U.S. border is also located, there are tons of restaurants run by Mexicans. Of course, I am sure there is good, authentic Mexican food in Washington as well. However, perhaps due to the physical closeness to Mexico, the tacos we had in New Mexico are still unforgettable to this day. 
 

With this year's Spring Break just about a week away, I know that many students are thinking about where to go and what to do. During the break, you may want to stay in the forms to catch up on your rest, or since you are in the U.S., you may want to enjoy a trip within the U.S. For domestic trips, you do not need a special Visa signature at the International Student Office, and all you need is your passport! If you are still undecided about your spring break plans, it might be a good idea to start thinking about what you would like to do to motivate you to get done whatever you have to finish!  

- Rei 

Making Connections: Building a Supportive Network as an International Student

Picture this: you step foot onto campus grounds, a myriad of emotions swirling within you like leaves dancing in the wind. Orientation beckons, a symphony of introductions and icebreakers set against the backdrop of excitement and anticipation. Here, amidst the laughter and shared stories, seeds of friendship are sown, destined to bloom into the vibrant garden of your university experience.

As the days unfold like chapters in a book, you find yourself drawn to the canvas of student life, each stroke a testament to the rich tapestry of experiences awaiting you. Joining clubs and organizations becomes your brush, painting strokes of passion and purpose across the canvas of campus culture. From the vibrant hues of cultural clubs to the bold strokes of athletic prowess, there’s a space for every shade of your identity to shine.

Tips for Meeting New People and Making Friends

1. Attend Orientation Events: Orientation week is an excellent opportunity to meet other new students
   and start forming connections. Be sure to participate in icebreaker activities, campus tours, and
   welcome events organized by your university.

    

2. Join Clubs and Organizations: Get involved in student clubs and organizations that align with your 

   interests and hobbies. Whether you're passionate about sports, culture, academics, or volunteering, 

   there's likely a club for you. Joining clubs is a great way to meet like-minded peers and expand your 

   social circle.

3. Utilize Social Media: Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn can be valuable tools for connecting with other students, both locally and internationally. Join university-specific groups and online communities to engage with fellow students, ask questions, and share experiences

4. Participate in Group Study Sessions: Forming study groups with classmates is not only beneficial academically but also provides opportunities for social interaction and collaboration. Work together on assignments, study for exams, and share insights and resources.

- Biruktawit