Wabash College’s Community Friends Host Program welcomed 13 new international students from 10 countries to kick off the fall semester. The students come to campus from India, South Korea, Russia, Brazil, Canada, Kenya, Kazakstan, Spain, Bangladesh, and Germany.
Begun in 1986 by Judy Schmidt, the program pairs international students with local individuals and families who volunteer to host the students, introducing them to the area through community events and activities.
Hosts Linda Weaver, Sheila Evans and Kate Lindsay met the new arrivals during student orientation. One of the students has traveled to the North Pole, while the others have written a book, plan to join Wabash’s baseball team, speak four languages, and love Japanese food.
This fall, the students will have the opportunity to carve pumpkins, stroll down West Main Street on Halloween, and attend other community events. They will also staff a booth at Humans United for Equality’s Celebration of Unity on Sept. 19 at Pike Place.
The program is always looking for new volunteers. Interaction with the students is fun and enriching for both sides of the relationship.
Part of the goal of studying abroad is the interaction with citizens and learning about U.S. culture, whether by gathering crinoids along Sugar Creek, attending a city council meeting, or visiting a local church.
International students often like to cook — to have a taste of home. But learning what a “hushpuppy” is is part of the experience. Professors and the college environment offer many experiences, but the one-on-one with an individual or a family is exceptional for learning about the community.
Relationship developed often extend beyond the four years the students spend on campus. Community Friends have visited students in their home country after graduation and followed them as they obtain jobs, marry, and have children.
To join the program, contact Lindsay by emailing kate@donandkate.org or calling or texting 817-564-4191.
