The College Fix

Have you ever told a student from another country that he or she speaks English well?

According to USA Today’s “Voices From Campus,” this is a no-no. Here’s why, along with some other “tips”:

There is a great misconception that international students look and speak a certain way,” says Andrea Sosa, a junior at Goucher College, studying international relations and French. “It shouldn’t have to surprise people that I am well spoken and knowledgeable about the world,” says Sosa.

The key to having successful educational interaction and cultural exchange between international students and domestic students is to be curious but respectful — and to avoid assumptions at all costs, believes [Ntombikayise Gladwin] Gilman. “Approach questions in a sensitive light. Accept your understanding may be wrong. It is okay to say you don’t know,” she says.

Her advice is echoed by [Giang] Nguyen. “Ask, don’t assume. If someone is international, don’t resort to stereotypes about their country. Don’t act like you know their culture better than them. Don’t comment on how well their English is and definitely don’t say things like ‘professors go easy on you because English is not your first language,’” adds Nguyen.

Hmm. As one who spent a semester abroad while in college, I never encountered resentment at complimenting someone’s English, nor did I take any offense when someone commended my Spanish.

Really, why be offended at that? As long as the compliment is offered in good faith and is politely done, why get upset? If you speak English well because, say, you’ve lived in the U.S. for many years, just say so. Don’t get your panties all in a bunch, for heaven’s sake.

After all, Americans who spend time abroad face misconceptions and stereotypes too.

Read the full article.

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