By: Phillip Kent
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) – The University of Arkansas is looking for new ways to connect international students and scholars with their local community. The iFriend program looks to do just that.
“The program was not quite as formalized in the beginning, but we have been connecting international students with families in the Northwest Arkansas community since the 1950’s.” said iFriend Coordinator Clark Eckels.
When the iFriend program expanded to include domestic U of A students, it became the umbrella name for both Friendship Family and Campus Cousins programs.
The Friendship Family program is a long-term program that matches international students and scholars with families of many kinds in the Northwest Arkansas region, according to the university program website. Hosts share their traditions, events, and everyday life with their students which allows them to really connect with their host families.
The Campus Cousins program matches international and domestic University of Arkansas students to establish a peer friendship. Students can share campus life and events, as well as their cultures of origin. Domestic students can welcome new international students and be volunteer hosts. Orientation is required and the University asks participants to meet at least twice a month and stay in touch throughout the school year.
“Usually, about 40-50% of new students participate in this program and many go on to join the iFriend program afterwards,” said Eckels.
Advertising for these programs will begin during international orientation when students first arrive.