The international students of Marion’s Tabor Academy learn important life lessons in their years at the school: how to layer their clothing for the winter, that it probably isn’t advisable to admit you’re a communist (even if you’re from China) and to let go of their own stereotypes of America.

“The key to being an international student is to be open-minded and willing to embarrass yourself,” said Anna Castro, a senior student from Mexico.

When foreign students arrive from Bahrain, China, Germany and other distant countries, they have two suitcases and equal amounts of apprehension and enthusiasm.

“It’s their dream. They’re bouncing with excitement,” said Director of International Students Steve Downes.

But when their parents say goodbye, it’s a teary moment for everyone.

For parents, “They know they’ll get their kids back, but it’ll be different,” said Downes.

For their students, it’s a final push into the deep end of a foreign culture.

Downes and Director of Communications Merry Conway are ready.

“We help them integrate so they feel and the American kids feel that they are Tabor students, that they’re fully a part of the community,” said Downes.

International kids are teamed up with returning students who show them the ropes.

“It brings down the anxiety level,” said Conway. “It helps this feel more like home.”

So does the annual trip to Target.

“This year Target called us to see what day we were coming so they could put out extras. It’s sort of an invasion,” said Conway.

Throughout the school year, the 96 international students are encouraged to interact with the community through meals with Tabor families, rooming with American students and even cooking an international dinner for the student body.

They’re also required to speak English in most public places on campus, which Downes admits might be the most challenging rule.

“Everyday we push them,” said Downes. “They’re very good-natured about it.”

Ahmed Bardooli of Bahrain admitted that the transition can be difficult for international students because they often have different cultural values than their American peers.

Still Bardooli, a senior, embraced the unfamiliar.

“Before coming here, I had never traveled alone, never seen snow, never had s’mores,” he said.

Edwin Hsieh, a senior from Taiwan, said studying in the States gave him the chance to branch out with his studies.

“The education back home was not for me. It was a very good decision to leave. I wouldn’t have the point of view I have now if I had stayed,” he said.

Then there are the Thai students who have definitely shown a willingness to try new things.

“One of the most popular sports for them is ice hockey,” said Downes. “I haven’t been able to figure that one out.”

With 24 countries represented, Downes said he and Conway invest a lot of time in their students. Consequently, the school, which welcomed its first international student in the late 1800s, has garnered a reputation as one that takes care of its foreign contingent.

“We’re very fortunate to have every single one of them at this school,” said Conway.