International Scene

Having spent a week together doing orientation activities and all being in the same boat (far from home in a new culture) the international scene gets to know each other well. It can be quite easy to sink into the trap of hanging out with only internationals (only Americans in extreme cases) and while there are amazing, really cool people from Europe and the States there is something that will be missed if you only chill with them. There is somewhere in the neighbourhood of 300 American students, 30 Norwegians, a dozen Canadians, and a smattering of Dutch, Germans, Danes, Swedes and Swiss. As a Canadian it is vital that any resentment about being labelled as American is abandoned as quickly as possible; the difference between Canadians and Americans to anyone off the North American continent is unintelligible. However, it is important to continue to identify and politely correct people that you are indeed Canadian because the reaction is priceless. Very quickly people’s facial expressions will shift from faint distaste, to relief, and then to embarrassment before they apologise profusely. I am increasingly sympathetic and occasionally embarrassed and dismayed at the close mindedness that people will display towards Americans abroad. The majority that I have met are incredible liberal (only one report of a Bush supporter), very engaging and interested in the people and culture. In larger groups however, some of the typical tendencies become more apparent. Nobody can figure out why there are so many Norwegians (usually older and a disturbing number in very long term, committed relationships; how could you spend so much time apart?) but they are all wonderfully kind and fun people. I am somewhat proud that, regardless of the party’s location or time, there is usually one other Canadian having a good time. There is a group of four of us (all from Vancouver) that get along incredibly well and float in and out of each others social circles: no harm in making friendships that can be continued back at home.