International Friends
About
Note: Our student organization is on a hiatus, or has limited events & programs, we may take longer getting back to you through messages or email.
International Friends is a local chapter of International Intervarsity, see more about our organization here: https://www.internationals.net/
International Friends is a welcoming and safe place to learn American culture, practice English, make new friends, and have fun! We've been on campus for over 15 years. We are a network of Christian students & volunteers who welcome, serve, and befriend the international student community with social, cultural, language, and religious programs.
COVID-19 UPDATES: Many of our programs are still available for in-person small groups (with masks). Message us to find out how to join in-person programs this year.
We run an English Conversation Partner Program, host fun social & cultural events, and connect American and International students. We have holiday parties, special multicultural events, and interfaith events (like “Peace Feasts” for Muslims & Christians). We travel together for school breaks to local camps and conferences. We exist as a place where students can openly explore faith topics and ask questions in discussion groups, Bible Studies, and spiritual prayer groups.
Conversation Partner Program: Would you like a safe, easy place to practice your English language skills? Would you enjoy having an American friend who would meet with you each week and help you with any questions or challenges you may have? American students and community volunteers meet individually with international students for one hour each week to help you practice English conversation skills, learn about American culture, and build friendships! You can meet your partner in-person at a coffee shop, on campus, or at a local park. International Students can sign up here: www.tinyurl.com/conversation-partner-program
Bible Study and Interfaith Discussion Groups: We host several small Bible Study and interfaith discussion groups where students and volunteers can talk about spirituality, religion, and stories from the Bible. You don’t need to be a Christian to join a discussion group, everyone is welcome to learn and to share their views. We have groups for Muslims and Christians to meet, groups for women only, and groups based around different topics.
Fun Events: Join us for movie & game nights, holiday parties, sightseeing trips, Spring Break activities, our Fall Conference in October, and especially for our amazing trip to the Lake of the Ozarks in May after finals!