Open Doors Host Program: Open Doors to the International Community

A 2010 Host Family

It is no secret if you read my last blog that I encourage others to get as much international exposure as they can. As Department Coordinator for the ISSO, I am really excited to announce the 2011/2012 Open Doors Host Program which give students the opportunity to gain international exposure right here!  In the past, this program has matched first-year international students with Brandeis staff and faculty members. This year it is being expanded to have upperclassman students as hosts!

What this means is that all Brandeis staff, faculty, and students have the opportunity to learn about other cultures while they help an international student! Because of my excitement for potential hosts, even though this is my blog, I thought I would share with you some testimonials from past Open Doors members (both student participants and host participants):

“Open Doors has been a wonderful experience to connect with our international student population and other hosts! I have had the pleasure of working with one of our exceptionally talented first year students and learning about her Chinese culture. Mostly it has been wonderful to just be there for her to answer questions about life, classes, dreams, etc. Open Doors is one way that Brandeis is building a stronger community of neighbors, one where every student feels that they have someone to turn to!” -Staff Host Participant

“Thanks to ISSO I have had a wonderful semester at Brandeis. From the very welcoming and informative International Student Orientation, to the fun and delicious Open Doors Potluck Dinner, to the surprising and yummy Try-A-Pie Thanksgiving-themed contest, I have truly enjoyed every activity ISSO organized and sponsored…During these activities and many other, I can always find a familiar smiling face. She is my Open Doors host, Audra…I am truly thankful to Audra and the Open Doors program. Just as the program’s name indicates, it has opened new doors, exposed me to a new culture and provided me with new perspectives” –International Student Participant

INTERESTED? If the above aren’t reasons enough, there is more information on the ISSO website.   All Brandeis students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to sign up!