Cross-Cultural Connections

This podcast explores the communication barriers experienced by a Bangladeshi graduate student in the Philippines. This sheds light on the unique challenges of cultural differences in communication styles and norms. From the reluctance to say "no" directly to using non-verbal cues like lip-pointing, each observation paints a vivid picture of the student's journey to adapt and understand. The podcast provides key takeaways, emphasizing cultural sensitivity, adaptability, active listening, and patience as essential tools for effective cross-cultural communication. Through engaging discussions and practical strategies, this podcast fosters understanding and paves the way for meaningful connections in our diverse world. Ms. Jannat Mou is a foreign student from Rangpur City, Bangladesh who is taking her Masters Degree in Plant Breeding at the University of the Philippines - Los Baños. She is an MS Scholar of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Mou has an impressive educational background, having obtained a Bachelor Degree in Agriculture at Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University at Dinajpur, Bangladesh. She then went to embark on a remarkable career journey after being the research associate at Nashik Plant and Pot.Beyond her educational background, she is known to be one of the most friendly foreign students in UPLB. For her bright smiles and love for cats, she provides a comfortable and inviting environment to everyone she encounters. Despite the cultural differences she has been facing, she still manages to make good friends with the Filipinos and different nationalities.Our group is honored to listen to Mou share her experiences about cultural differences in her seven months stay in thePhilippines.