This fall, 454 international students representing 55 countries, from Armenia to Zambia, will arrive in Nashville to study at Vanderbilt. Many of these students have never been to the United States or may not know anyone here. It is an exciting and challenging time for them as they settle into their new surroundings and adjust to a new culture.
To help these students feel welcome and to ease the transition to American culture, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) offers a way for them to connect with the Vanderbilt and Nashville communities through the First Friends program.
First Friends is Vanderbilt’s international friendship program, connecting international students with Americans on and off campus for friendship and cross-cultural exchange. International students join First Friends to experience American life and culture. At the same time, international students bring unique experiences from their home countries that they are excited to share with new American friends.
Vanderbilt faculty and staff are invited to become a First Friend to international students. ISSS will host orientation sessions on campus Tuesday, Aug. 30, and Wednesday, Sept. 7 (you only need to attend one). Participants will be notified of their First Friends match before the Sunday, Sept. 11, Match Day Picnic.
Student applications are due by Friday, Aug. 26 at 5 p.m. Submit applications to ISSS, located in the Student Life Center, 310 25th Ave. S., Suite 103, or fax them to 615-343-7799. For questions, email isss@vanderbilt.edu or call 615-322-2753.
Learn more and download an application on the ISSS website.
The First Friends program is coordinated by International Student and Scholar Services, a Dean of Students office.