Those of you who attend Liberty University, have probably seen at some point the International Student Center located next to the Grand Lobby in DeMoss Hall. Perhaps you have wondered what goes on in there every time you pass it by on your way to class, perhaps you have managed to sneak a peek inside when you think no one is going to notice, or perhaps you didn’t even know there was an International Student Center.
Either way, this article is for you. So, without further ado, I am going to give you 7 great reasons, why next time instead of just passing by, you should just walk right in.
1. Everyone is welcome, not just international students.
While the International Student Center was founded specifically for the international students, in no way does that mean that only international students are welcome. The International Student Center welcomes students from all cultures and nationalities, and yes that also includes Americans. So next time, don’t just pass by and wonder what goes on in there, instead come in, and see for yourself. I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed.
2. We have the most beautifully furnished office on Campus
I realize that as an international student you might think that I am a little biased, but I can honestly say that out of all of the offices that I have been to on campus none of them are as cozy, and tastefully decorated as the International Student Center.
3. You will get to meet students from all around the world.
There are students from all over the world at Liberty University, and you can find a lot of them at the International Student Center. Whether you are a Global Studies major, someone who is interested in learning about different cultures, or you simply want to make new friends the International Student Center is the place for you. Approach the students, find out where they are from, and ask them about their culture. It’s a great opportunity to expand your horizons a little bit, and learn more about the world.
4. There is always something fun going on
There are countless of amazing events and activities going on at the International Student Center that you definitely do not want to miss. My personal favorite, are the open houses, where the International Student Center chooses to celebrate a specific country or region of the world such as Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean, and many more, by decorating, dressing up in traditional clothes, playing wonderful music,and my personal favorite giving out several traditional dishes of the region cooked by the students themselves. Everyone is welcome to join in the celebration, whether you are a staff member, an international student, or an American student you definitely do not want to miss this opportunity to celebrate in a very authentic way all of the different cultures around the world.
5. Free Coffee
As college students, everyone knows that we basically run on coffee. And while Starbucks is great, sometimes when you are in between classes you simply don’t have the time to stand in line for 40 mins. So, stop by the International Student Center, grab a cup of delicious coffee, chat for a while, and head to class.
6. It’s a great place to simply hang out
There doesn’t have to be an event in order for you to be able to come visit the International Student Center. Most international students simply hang out there during the day or in between classes. It’s a great place to do homework, chat with friends, meet new people, or take a nap in the very very comfortable couches.
7. The staff is super friendly
The staff at the International Student Center is one of the nicest I’ve ever encountered. They are always willing to listen to you, help you with any problem you may have, and go above and beyond their responsibilities to make sure that you are taken care of. If you are not an international student they will probably not be able to help you with academic issues, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t chat with them, and get to know them.
I speak from experience when I say that they will take time from their very busy schedule to ask you how you are doing, get to know you better, and make sure that you feel welcome at the International Student Center.
So there you have it, next time you have a couple of minutes in between classes, or you feel like having some coffee, meeting new people, or learning more about the different cultures around the world do not hesitate to walk into the International Student Center, you will most definitely be welcomed with open arms.
