Adjusting to college is always tough. Now, just imagine traveling overseas to attend a college in a city you’ve never explored before. Erika Buckley, Director for International Student Services at Monmouth College, does her best to help international students acclimate themselves to both the school and their new hometown.
“Our goal is inclusion, growth, and community. As long as we can get those three things working together, we want everybody to learn about each other and grow,” Buckley said.
Buckley says Monmouth will be home to students from all walks of life this semester, including Bulgaria, Finland, Costa Rica, Spain, Ghana, and Italy. She says that wouldn’t be a possibility without the help of gracious host families in the area.
“The students really like it. We’ve seen great bonds, so we’re always looking for new families. Monmouth families, thus far, have been really great, and we really appreciate them, so the more that we can get involved in the program, the better,” Buckley said.
A cultural festival at the college, which is open to the public, will be held on Saturday, Sept. 23rd, at 11:00 a.m. The event will take place on Dunlap Terrace, and consist of musical performances and cultural food.
written by Jackson Kane
http://podcast.prairiecommunications.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/erika-buckley-8-23-17.mp3
