Living arrangements in your program will likely differ from what you are used to at Pomona College and in your home city and country, and students should be prepared to adapt. Cars, varied diets, private rooms, home internet, and ample supplies of hot water may be considered luxuries in some international locales. The use of public transportation or walking may be essential for getting around. To make the most of living in your new environment, students should be considerate, outgoing, flexible, and sensitive to local and cultural differences.
Students may experience varying levels of “culture shock” while they are in a new location. It may take some time to adjust to circumstances in your new environment because you are out of your comfort zone. As time passes and you become more engaged with the local norms, culture, and activities, you will start to learn more about yourself and the new environment. Daily life and opportunities to engage with peers and the local community may vary depending on your program and housing situation. More information related to the different housing options can be found in the Housing Options section.
Pomona College students are subject to the same standards of conduct and academic regulations while studying away as stipulated in the Pomona College Student Handbook. Students are also subject to regulations set by the host institution or program, as well as the host city, state, or country. These standards may be significantly different from those of Pomona College, California, or the United States. Most programs provide guidelines in pre-departure manuals and on-site orientation sessions. When in doubt about local practices, ask the program staff. Remember that it is important to be aware of and follow the local laws. Within the U.S. and international legal frameworks, Pomona College and your program provider may not be able to assist if you break the law, particularly in another country.
The resident director, program, or host institution may, at their discretion, impose disciplinary measures or dismissal if a student's behavior is found to be damaging to the student, other participants, or the operation of the program. In the case of dismissal, decisions on credits, grades, and finances will be made by the IDPO in consultation with the program. Dismissed students are responsible for all unrecoverable program costs.