Science - December 9, 2004
Dean: ‘Talk about your problems’
International students who have personal problems should not hesitate to turn to the Dean. A Chinese student now regrets she didn’t look for help earlier, ‘But in our culture you try to be tolerant.’
She was also hesitant about moving because she feared that, due to the increase in rent for SSHW-flats, a new room would be more expensive. Finally she stayed with friends as much as possible. ‘I got stressed when I was working at my computer in my room because I didn’t know when they would knock on my door and start shouting again.’ Two weeks ago she had had enough and started looking for help again. ‘People from ISP en PSF advised me to contact the Dean, Jan van Bommel. He was very helpful. He contacted the SSHW to help me get another room.’
This is not the first case Van Bommel has seen of friction between people on a corridor. ‘Cultural aspects are often involved. International students are not familiar with Dutch habits, they try to stay polite and think they are the problem. Not everybody can deal with the Dutch directness.’ The dean stresses that his office has a lot of experience with and knowledge of other cultures. He advises students with individual problems not to keep the problem to themselves for too long. ‘You can come here and get things off your chest. And we can often help out.’
The Chinese student is happy a solution is nearby. Nevertheless she regrets she is leaving. ‘It feels like losing. I still want them to apologise.’ / YdH