a World of difference re f l e c T i o n s The study tour was a marvelous opportunity to see and learn about campus housing in another part of the world. Of particular significance to me was gaining an understanding of the role of higher education in a developing country. It was heartening to learn that on-campus living is viewed as vital to the university experience, so much so that all students are required to live on campus. Although it’s a daunting undertaking, housing staff in China are undoubtedly masters at managing occupancy. I came away from the trip with a renewed commitment to providing exceptional acclimation experiences for international students who live on campus at my institution. I also feel that I developed a network of colleagues from around the world with whom I hope to maintain contact for years to come. Dr. Diana Robertson Director, Department of Student Housing University of Kansas in Lawrence (clockwise from top right) “I actually did a double-take when I first saw this banner welcoming us to Sun Yat Sen University in Guangzhou, because I wasn’t expecting such a public welcome. This is a good representation of the warm and inviting reception we received on all of our campus visits” (Adam Rockman). The student canteen at Sun Yat Sen (Kington). Two students from the Guizhou College of Finance and Economics show off their residence hall room (Molly Tyson). Guizhou College of Finance and Economics students focus on taking a test (Tyson). The common building for student residences at Fudan University in Shanghai. “I found this to be interesting because it was the first institution that had a student development-focused perspective most similar to what is experienced in the United States. The building was similar to a mini-student union for the residents and showed an emphasis on student programming and social activities” (Tyson). 50 Talking STick