Any advice for an American looking to study T&T?

[Choco-latte]

I've been heavily considering going to university in Trinidad because of the terrible economy here and also because I've always wanted to study abroad so I figure why not Trinidad since I'm already familiar with it to an extent, right? My mom thinks it's a fabulous idea and really wants to move back there sometime soon. I'm aiming for this year but who knows, it might be next year. My major in college is English and my minor is International Business. What universities/colleges in Trinidad would be good for someone studying English and International Business? Or just English because I may decide to change my minor down the road if I'm not feeling it.

Also, I'm concerned about what my social life will be like as an American in Trinidad. When I was young I was teased while in Trinidad for being a Yankee and at times I'd feel uncomfortable, even slightly embarrassed to be the only one in the room with an American accent. But I can't help what accent I have. Recently while in Trinidad I noticed that when I talk some Trini people would have this smirk on their faces like they've never heard an American in their life! This brings me to my second question: how would young adults in Trinidad perceive me, a Caribbean-American? I don't want to be some outcast who has no friends or who is the butt of everyone's jokes.

Are there any schools that are more accepting of foreigners than others?

Any additional input or advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Solachica]

I don't think Trinis smirt at foreigners. Maybe you have tht in your head and you not comfortable.

Uwi have quite a few exchange students every semester. All they fit in well. No one smirks at them. :?

I not sure abt english degree etc. Check out uwi website.

[alieninthecaribbean]

Here is a good place to start.

http://sta.uwi.edu/

I don't know about the smirking, I think we are pretty welcoming of foreigners and we love nothing better than socializing and acclaimating them to our way of life :D

If you want to meet people on your level while here I would also suggest interning at the Copy Department in an ad agency or at a newspaper or media house during your vacation period.

You will meet creative, interesting, fun, open-minded people who might better appreciate your style, tastes etc and expose you to eclectic local, cultural experiences like the recent Erotic Art Week in Port of Spain, open mike poetry nights etc.

[Double Trouble]

Pick up a Jamaican accent and you'll do fine.

[bigzack]

Pick up a Jamaican accent and you'll do fine.

Where?

Not at UWI, St.Augustine.

[Solachica]

Why not at uwi? Dem jam fellers are 'studs' on campus. :lol

[letric]

You are a born survivor, therefore should not have any problem assimilating with other students, be they Americans, Caribbean, English. etc. Just be yourself. Do not attempt to be an orange if you are a grapefruit, just because others like oranges. if you are a grapefruit, be a grapefruit, but make sure you are the best amongst all grapefruits. English is acceptable, you write extremely well. All good fortune in your quest. Be happy!

[Solachica]

Contact the registrar at uwi she is very quick with replying emails. You can find out abt transferring etc.
New semester starts September.

[bigzack]

Why not at uwi? Dem jam fellers are 'studs' on campus. :lol

Well geezzzzzzz!!!!

Why wouldn't they be "studs" at UWI?

Isn't that why they are there?

Say, I don't know all this text messaging lingo, but isn't "studs" supposed to mean "students"?