However, there is a great way to get past these obstacles: getting involved on campus and in the community. Joining student organizations and academic clubs can help you practice English, make friends and improve your overall college experience.
The University of Arkansas has many programs that students can use to make great friends and great memories. Here are five ways to getting involved as an international student.
International Culture Team
The International Culture Team (ICT), is a group of international students that share their culture through presentations, demonstrations, cooking, clothing, and performances.
The goal of ICT is to bring cultural diversity to campus and Northwest Arkansas, while also learning from each other. Each year, ICT members provide cultural presentations and performances for about 10,000 children and adults. Explore the ICT website for more info in how to join.
ICT members and community celebrating the International Women’s day on March 8th
iFriend Program
Another great way to get involved at the University of Arkansas is to join the iFriend Program. You can choose from different subprograms that may last anywhere from one day to an entire year.
International students may not always have a place to go during holidays but are welcome in programs like Thanksgiving Dinner in an American home.
Studying in the United States usually means that international students are far from their home and families. Friendship Families and Campus Cousins are locals who want international students to feel welcome and supported. If you are staying in the U.S. for at least semester or two, then take some time to check out this program – you will be glad you did!
As stated on their webpage, “iFriend hopes to improve the world one friendship at a time!”
Conversation Club
One of the best ways to improve English language skills is to use them often. Conversation club is an excellent way to improve your ability to hold a fluent conversation in English.
This program is a great fit for students with all levels of English proficiency because it is so simple. Students meet in small groups, hold a conversation and make friends – easy and effective.
International students must register for Conversation Club and can choose a time that works best with their class schedule. To view instructions on how to join, visit the Conversation Club webpage.
Cross Cultural Mentor Program
Once you have adjusted to life in the U.S., consider getting involved by helping other international students who are new to campus.
Cross Cultural Mentors (CCMs) are student leaders who help new international students get comfortable in the United States. This involves participating in orientation, answering questions from new students, and meeting regularly throughout the semester to attend community activities, sporting events and more.
Ultimately, the goal is to help new international students adjust “academically, culturally, and socially to the United States and the University of Arkansas.” Every international student in a new country likely needed some help when they arrived. Consider being the person who provides that help.
Volunteer Action Center
Another great organization you can join is the Volunteer Action Center (VAC). This student-led organization connects students to volunteering opportunities in the NWA community.
The VAC is divided into five “teams”, each of which serve the U of A community, Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas. If you are looking to get more involved with others who want to make the world a better place, then check out the options below:
- Razorback Food Recovery – Leftover food from campus dining halls and shops does not need to go to waste. Students work to prevent food waste and decrease hunger in our community by collecting uneaten food and donating it to local organizations. Since 2014, over 130,000 pounds of food has been recovered!
- Jane B. Gearhart Full Circle Food Pantry – Everyone can use a little help at some point in life and no one should ever have to go hungry. If you are a U of A student or employee in need of assistance, simply show your student ID and you will be provided with three days of groceries. Volunteers are needed for just a few hours a week to help fill orders and greet individuals with need requests.
- Dream B.I.G. – This program seeks to mentor young girls, partnering them with University of Arkansas women (including international students), to encourage them to be their best self and to teach them how to overcome adversity.
- A.L. – This program encourages a love for reading and learning in local children. Each week, dozens of students go to schools in the community to mentor a child and provide an alternative learning experience – and have fun at the same time!
- Student Engagement – This final team is made up of multiple programs, to provide even more involvement opportunities. Through programs such as Days of Service or Find Your Impact, students help connect our campus with the greater Northwest Arkansas community.
Students volunteering with the VAC and making the difference in the community.
Get Involved
With so many ways to get involved, it is possible for every international student to develop an active and fulfilling experience while studying at the University of Arkansas.
Looking to make friends, have fun, improve your language skills or make a positive impact in the world? Opportunities are available – and there are many more than the five we listed here!
Being on campus in the United States is great, but those who choose to get involved are not just on campus – they are part of campus life. So, while you are studying in the U.S., consider choosing one of these opportunities and get involved!
