(PHOENIX, Ariz., Nov. 24, 2003) – Recently Phoenix College math instructor, Tom Adamson began his first phase of the Netherlands Exchange Program as he hosted Sisca van Schieveen of ROC Aventus College. Sisca spent approximately two weeks with Tom and his family and during her stay she discovered some interesting similarities and unique differences about the U.S. and the Netherlands.

Sisca, who works mostly with adults at her home campus, had an opportunity to observe reading and English ESL classes, observe Adult Basic Education classes at Rio Salado College and the Maricopa Skill Center, hear guest lecturers on cultural diversity in education and much more.

"This has been a great experience to see how our schools are alike and how they are different," said Sisca. "I mainly work with adults, teaching them basic education and basic skills - computer skills, financial literacy - things like that. My job is not so specialized as Tom’s position. Rather than focusing primarily on one subject, like Math – my position focuses on a little bit of everything, which is a perfect match for me."

After spending time on the Phoenix College campus, Sisca got acquainted with the people and its surroundings.

"Phoenix College has a good atmosphere," she added. "The campus is very nice. It is interesting to see how we differ in terms of our disciplines and different academic levels. That’s what this exchange is all about—to learn from one another and Tom has been a great host."

Sisca, an avid baseball fan, also took time out of her busy schedule to tour BankOne Ball Park. She also took advantage of the shopping in Phoenix and viewed the city from the top of South Mountain.

Adamson will continue with the second phase of the program when he begins his exchange in the Netherlands on May 8.

The Netherlands Exchange Program is available through District International and Intercultural Education and allows each participant to spend two weeks in their selected country.

The program, which is open to board approved employees, matched eight exchange participants from MCCD with a counterpart in one of the 24 participating Dutch Colleges. The purpose of this partnership is to gain additional understanding of a different educational system and how it impacts working with international students. It allows participants, like Adamson to develop new perspectives on their professional competencies and experience new educational settings.

For more information about this exchange program, please contact the International Education Office at (480) 461-7758.

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