Programs
iMentor
iMentor (International Mentor) is a youth mentoring program sponsored by the International Programs Office. This program pairs current UHV international students with prospective students between the ages of 15 and 18 who are thinking about studying in the U.S. This is a great, unique experience for all students involved as they learn from one another and share their interests and experiences. If you are interested in mentoring a future international student or becoming an overseas mentee, please contact the International Programs Office for more additional information.
International Student Orientation
International Programs hosts an international student orientation each semester for new and transfer international students to UHV. International student orientation is mandatory for all international students. International Student Orientation is customized only for our new and transfer international students to ensure that our students are ready to transition to college life at UHV. We understand that leaving family and home behind can be a difficult adjustment for our international students. International Programs is here to assist our international students during this difficult transition time. The content, events, and facts covered by the international student orientation is not covered by any other department on-campus.
International student orientation includes information concerning immigration issues, Housing, banking, transportation, academic skills building, plagiarism, cross-cultural adjustment, work authorizations, Social Security Cards, etc. The International student orientation also provides networking opportunities with other new students as well as returning international students. International student orientation is a great way to acclimate to UHV and be welcomed to our friendly, safe community.
International Student Ambassador Program (ISAP)
International Student Ambassadors (ISAs) are current UHV students who volunteer to welcome and assist incoming international students during international student orientation. ISAs play a major role in adjusting to the university and the community for new international students. ISAs are an important resource for new students as they have been a part of UHV and can share their experiences as students of our campus. Volunteering as an ISA is not only a great service opportunity but also a great leadership and networking opportunity.
Friendship Family Program
This program’s purpose is connecting UHV international students with community families. This family volunteer program is designed to supplement the students’ academic experience by getting them off campus and into our community. International students at UHV live on-campus but are interested in learning about the American culture and having a family connection because they are so far from their home. Our community families will find the Friendship Family Program to be a rewarding experience; and for the students, the opportunity to share a bit of their lives is often one of their most cherished experiences in the United States.
International Programs hosts casual events for the families and international students, such as a picnic or potluck, so that they can meet and interact throughout the duration of the program. Outside of these events, we expect families to connect with the student(s) for occasions such as meals, family gatherings, day trips, or any other activities that families are comfortable sharing. Some students and families are happy to see each other twice a year while some see one another almost every week. Families can “adopt” as few as 1 international student or as many as 3 international students during the program.