Founded over 20 years ago as a community program lead by volunteers, International Friends has been a staple of the international community at Missouri State University for generations of students. When the international student population and program popularity grew beyond the scope of volunteers, Missouri State began to provide resources and support for the program from the Office of International Programs.
International Friends exists for the purpose of assisting Missouri State international students in finding Americans to befriend, sharing common interests, and giving them an opportunity to experience the United States with a local.
Since 2002, the number of international friends at Missouri State has more than tripled. The program that began as a way for international students to make friends has grown into a community-wide effort to embrace cultural competence and welcome our “International Friends” with open arms.
Who is an American Friend?
- A “friend” can be a large or small family with children.
- A “friend” can be a domestic student.
- A “friend can be a single adult.
- A “friend” can be a couple without children in their home.
- A “friend” can be grandparents.
- A “friend” is always someone who can open their heart and has a willingness to share time with their international student.
Commitment
- Be in contact with your international student at least once per month.
- Attend the International Friends informational meeting.
- Sign up each semester. If, after a semester, you would like to discontinue participation you may, but our hope is that you will enjoy a long-term relationship with your new friend.