International students share about their countries Published Dec. 6, 2012 By Airman 1st Class Erica Rodriguez 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- On average, Goodfellow trains a combination of more than 4,400 Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen each year, though often overlooked are the additional 30 International Military Students from various countries around the world that are selected to train here. "Part of their training includes exposing the IMS's to American culture. Goodfellow International Military Student Officer's provide several opportunities for our IMS's to interact with the community," said Yalonda Folks, International Military Student Officer chief. One of the ways the international students are able to interact with the community is through the International Country Briefings. Within these briefings the students are able to teach attendees about various aspects of their countries such as history, geography, demographics, and their culture. When asked about giving the briefing about his country and being in America, one of the students spoke of his experience. "Meeting people coming from different countries all around the world was a great experience, a great human experience; sharing our histories, cultures, traditions and values," said Capt. Gabriele Tarantino, International Military Student. Tarantino gave a briefing on his home country, Italy. Within his briefing, he used humor and interesting facts to engage the audience into learning many great things about Italy. "I tried to do the briefing a little different, go over different aspects of Italy, like things about our Armed Forces, history, geography and culture," Tarantino said. "I wanted give more than just what you could find on the internet." The briefings provide a good way to promote the mutual awareness of other cultures within the world that many would not have originally known about. "When you share your culture, they can really feel what you're feeling," said Tarantino. "And yeah, I really like that. Sharing our culture was my favorite part, I really felt mine." Attending these briefings not only provides educational opportunities, but encourages friendships and interaction without regard to politics or geographic boundaries. The International Student Country Briefings are held quarterly and all military personnel, civilians, spouses and family are encouraged to come. For more information contact Yalonda Folks at (325)654- 5077.
