Connect with International Students
Participating in a cultural exchange program is a unique way for individuals and families to share in another’s culture and traditions as well as introduce positive impressions of Americans. The primary requirement for participating in any of these programs is a genuine desire to share American language and culture with international students, and a willingness to learn from them as well. You will gain an understanding of what it’s like to be new to the United States, and you can be instrumental in helping these students adapt to American life.
If you are interested in sharing American culture and language with bright young international college students, consider connecting with new and current international students through one of the programs below.
Buddy Program
This program pairs current American students with incoming international students through e-mail. Our goal is to pair every new international student with a University of Dayton "buddy." These pairings then communicate through e-mail prior to the new students' arrivals on campus. For our international students, it's a real treat to have someone to talk to before they arrive. Many international students use this opportunity to practice their English, ask questions about the University and the city of Dayton, and get to know American students. For American students, this is an opportunity to communicate with international students before they arrive to the University of Dayton.
After signing-up, the ISSS office will provide participants with instructions on how to contact your buddy and additional guidelines. We want to emphasize that the program's main expectation is sustained communication. If you are unable to maintain consistent communication with others, this program might not be for you. If you enjoy learning about other cultures, serving as a "cultural ambassador," and communicating through e-mail, this program is for you!
Contact
Harriet Brown, isss@udayton.edu
Conversation Groups
As a conversation group participant, you will meet and talk with international students a part of conversation group sessions, which will be available two times a week. You can choose to be a part of a conversation group as often as twice a week, or as little as once every two weeks to once a month. You decide on your level of commitment. Registration is not required.
During a conversation group session, you will meet students enrolled in the Intensive English Program. Each session will begin with a conversation question, with the freedom to follow the question's lead or take the conversation in a new direction. The primary purpose is to help students improve their conversational English and increase their knowledge of American culture. Students and staff are welcome to bring their own lunches. Lemonade and cookies will be provided.
Spring B 2013 dates and times (March 19 through May 1)
Tuesdays, 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m., Rike Center 108
Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m., Rike Center 108
Contact