As a cross-cultural relocation and life transitions coach, the mission of Washington DC’s International Student House (ISH) is dear to my heart. The non-profit organization provides a residential experience to a diverse international community of graduate students, interns, and visiting scholars – a group of individuals that is at the core of my coaching practice. I was delighted to join many of them at the ISH Global Leadership Awards Dinner in October!
The House promotes inter-cultural dialogue, encourages life-long connections, and fosters global citizenship. I took the opportunity to listen to stories of the highs and lows of relocating from abroad to Washington, DC and privately examine the various stages of adjustment these individuals face. As always, the topics of assumptions, values and commitment are applicable to residents’ experiences when living at ISH and inform my work and lectures with these groups of people. It is wonderful to take real life experiences and weave them into the Crossing Borders With Confidence Workshops I lead for international students. (Read more about my most recent workshop on my Testimonials page.)
Former Senator Richard G. Lugar won the global leadership award for promoting intercultural dialogue and peaceful global citizenship. Speakers included Vice President Biden and Dr. Biden, The Honorable Chuck Hagel and the Ambassador of Italy.
This year’s Global Citizen Award was awarded to the Hariri Family for its outstanding support for educational exchange opportunities, its work to encourage civil society, effective governance and sustainable development.
The Distinguished Alumni Award was given to Abraham Akoi, a young man from South Sudan who lived at ISH from 2008 to 2010 while pursuing both a Master’s Degree and MBA from Johns Hopkins University.
As you can see, there were many notable attendees!
The event was a benefit for ISH, with proceeds allowing it to continue its mission of providing a residential experience for international students. A portion of the proceeds goes towards ISH’s scholarship program for students.
Are you an international graduate student, intern or visiting scholar? Have you recently relocated to the US or the Washington, DC area from abroad? Cross-cultural relocation and life transitions coaching can help you deal with the very real challenges you are facing as you adapt to life in a completely new cultural context.
During my husband’s career with the State Department, I relocated more than 10 times: from big cities like Tokyo, Paris and Bogota to small Japanese villages in Hokkaido prefecture. I understand the sense of isolation you might be feeling after a move and how that can be an obstacle for a smooth and successful transition. Alienation and frustration are common feelings after the initial euphoria has worn off, but with reflection and reorganization, we can improve your ability to adapt a new place.
Let’s begin an exciting adventure to find meaning and belonging in your new community. I provide Life Transition Coaching and Relocation Coaching both in-person and via Skype for individuals who have relocated to the US from abroad. The mentoring relationships I have created help my clients design and live extraordinary lives during their time here in the US. To learn more about how I can help you, read the incredible Testimonials I have received from my clients. Contact me today to get started.