The Office of International Study Programs (OISP) and the International Student & Scholar Institute (ISSI) would like to invite prospective study abroad students to participate in a new initiative that will bring them together with Northeastern University's international students. The purpose of the program is to give future study abroad students the opportunity to hear from international students who have firsthand experience of the country in which students hope to study abroad.
In the past, students who have studied abroad have said that they wished that they had known someone from the country in which they had studied with whom they could have spoken beforehand to gain the unique insight into the culture of that country as only someone who grew up in the culture would be qualified to provide. These students wished that they had known more about things such as customs, climate, local cuisine, health and safety, appropriate dress, proper etiquette, sites of historical and cultural significance, current events, the classroom culture, and much more. Thus, we have established a mentor/mentee program for the purpose of matching study abroad students with international students to facilitate cultural enlightenment and sharing of practical information to prepare students as they embark upon their study abroad experience.
The program would entail conversations between mentor and mentee so that the mentee could learn more about the country that they have chosen for their study abroad experience as previously outlined. At the same time, we hope that prospective study abroaders will provide their mentor with useful information on living in the US in order to facilitate a level of reciprocity. Please keep in mind that study abroad students may not be accommodated due to a limited number of mentors and/or countries represented. Thus, mentees will be paired with a mentor on a first come, first serve basis.
If you are interested in participating please complete the application form and submit to 301 Ell Hall. For questions please contact Lily Chryssis, l.chryssis@neu.edu in the Office of International Study Programs.
