To help international students adjust to the current financial crisis in Asia, the Student Counseling Service is offering a presentation this Friday.

Laura Heidel, psychology intern at the Student Counseling Service, is teaming up with Michelle Clark, staff psychologist at the Student Counseling Service, to inform students about learning coping mechanisms to deal with stress, noticing signs of stress and anxiety in friends and help that is available.

Heidel said the purpose of Friday’s presentation is to let students know someone is there for them if they need to air their problems.

“It’s helpful to talk to an objective person. We’re here,” she said. “We can help.”

The presentation, which will be held in Room 101 of Hamilton Hall from noon to 1 p.m., is also a “follow-up” to the aid provided by the help room in 210 Beardshear Hall in February.

Dennis Peterson, director of the Office of International Students and Scholars, said 446 international students filled out questionnaires in February and received financial counseling from the help room.

Peterson said the Office of Financial Aid and Student Employment also sent a letter to Ames employers asking for financial help. He added that one woman sent $150 and plans to send more.

Peterson said ISU President Martin Jischke and other university officials have arranged a $100,000 loan fund for students from Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia and Thailand, the four countries having the most financial difficulties.

Jischke previously had approved a proposal to allow the students to pay half of their spring 1998 tuition by June 30 and the other half by Aug. 24.

Peterson said Jischke “sees this as an important problem” and is trying to help.

He said students wanting information about the loan fund can go to Room 4 in Hamilton Hall, or they can call the Office of International Students and Scholars at 294-1120.

Heidel said if attendance is high at Friday’s presentation, future programs may be scheduled.