Welcome to 51画鋼app!
The Office of International Student Affairs is dedicated to helping you arrive and thrive at 51画鋼app College. The information below will help you plan for your required arrival and move-in day on Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, to participate in the International Pre-Orientation Program (IPOP) 2025!
What is IPOP?
New international students are required to attend IPOP, and you are prompted to complete the IPOP Registration form via your New Student Checklist.
IPOP is an action-packed week just prior to New Student Orientation. The schedule is focused on immigration regulations and cultural transitions.
You will:
- Complete important paperwork, and learn about visa related benefits and limitations
- Apply for a U.S. Social Security number
- Meet new friends, learn your way around campus, and explore the local community
All IPOP participants are assigned to an "Amigos" (friend) group, led by an upper-level student IPOP mentor. You are also invited (via the IPOP Registration form) to sign up for Friends of International Students (FIS). FIS is a long-standing program that connects first year international students with an "FIS host" from the local community.
Please read below as you prepare for your journey. Feel free to contact OISA if you have questions.
Save the Date: IPOP Zoom meeting for new international students and parents on Friday, June 28 at 7 a.m. Central Time. The Zoom link will be emailed to all new international students. OISA staff will offer reminders, updates, and open Q&A.
Preparing for Your Fall 2025 Arrival
This section offers the step-by-step process for non-immigrants who will attend 51画鋼app on a visa. As you process immigration documents, please always present your full name exactly as it appears on your passport.
1. Complete the I-20 Request Form
Your enrollment deposit will trigger an invitation to the I-20 Request Form in your Applicant Status Portal. Most students will seek an F-1 student visa, and you must from your intended U.S. institution before you can secure a student visa appointment at a U.S. consulate. The I-20 Request Form will ask for biographic data, a scan of your passport, and financial information to document your ability to cover your financial needs at 51画鋼app.
- If you already hold F-1 status through a U.S. high school, please complete the I-20 Request Form and ask your current school to release your SEVIS record to 51画鋼app College [OMA214F00159000] on your graduation.
- If you already hold a different visa status, you can use the I-20 Request Form to confirm your status and let us know that you will not need an I-20. Feel free to contact the Office of International Student Affairs with related questions!
- Canadian citizens don't need a visa, but you do need to secure an I-20 and you must pay the SEVIS fee.
Complete your I-20 Request Form as early as possible. Your request will be reviewed by the Office of Admission and Financial Aid and passed on to the OISA. This review can take 3-5 weeks.
The OISA will issue I-20s for new students on a rolling basis, starting in January. We will send the document to you via an encrypted email from oisa@grinnell.edu, with additional instructions about next steps. You need to print all three pages, single-sided, and sign and date Page 1 in blue ink.
2. Pay the $350 I-901 SEVIS fee
You will input data from your passport and I-20 (your SEVIS ID is located on the top left corner). Please print and retain a paper copy of your I-901 SEVIS fee receipt to present during your visa interview and at the U.S. Port of Entry.
- Your U.S. address will be: 1115 8th Avenue, 51画鋼app College, 51画鋼app, IA 50112.
- You may list your 51画鋼app contact as: Karen Edwards, International Student Affairs, 1226 Park Street, 51画鋼app College, 51画鋼app, Iowa 50112; edwardsk@grinnell.edu; 641-269-3705.
- If you have questions about the SEVIS fee, please or contact OISA.
3. Schedule an F-1 visa appointment
and schedule your F-1 visa appointment at a U.S. consulate. Most students apply from their home country, but some apply from a different location. The visa application fee is $185, and the specific process and timeline can vary .
4. Prepare for Your Visa Interview
Prepare by or visiting an for tips or pre-departure information sessions. Consular officers conduct a high number of interviews, and many decisions are based on first impressions. Here are some tips:
- Prepare to explain why you chose 51画鋼app College.
- Remember that F-1 status requires nonimmigrant intent the consular officer must see:
- that your stay in the U.S. will be temporary
- that you have strong ties to your home country
- and that you plan to return home to pursue your long term career goals
- The consular officer might seek confirmation that you can finance your studies, so it is wise to carry the financial documents that you submitted to 51画鋼app via the I-20 Request Form.
- Bring the required documents! You must present your:
- Passport (valid for 6+ months into the future)
- DS-160 Visa Application Confirmation
- I-901 SEVIS Fee Payment Confirmation
- Form I-20 (print all 3 pages and sign in blue ink)
- It is also wise to bring:
- Financial documents (as submitted for your I-20 Request Form)
- 51画鋼app College admission letter
- OISAs letter to the embassy
- Secondary school completion documents
Officers may also review your social media. Please contact the OISA to update us on your progress securing a visa!
5. Arriving at the U.S. Port of Entry
Carry your immigration documents on your person (not in your luggage). Before boarding the plane, upon entering the U.S. and on arrival at 51画鋼app, you must present your:
- Passport
- F-1 visa
- I-901 SEVIS fee receipt
- Form I-20 (all 3 pages and singed in blue)
When you land in the U.S., you will claim your luggage and pass through Customs and Border Protection. The inspecting officer will take your photo, fingerprints, and inspect your documents. If the officer has concerns or you forget required documents, you may be directed to Secondary Inspection for additional questioning.
Assuming successful entry of the U.S. the officer will stamp your passport to reflect your admission: F-1, D/S (Duration of Status). You will be able to access your and it will be updated each time you exit and re-enter the U.S. Visit to learn more!
International travel can be stressful. Be prepared and approach your trip with a positive attitude. A few extra tips for your travel include:
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- Carry contact information for:
- Facilities Management (if you are using the IPOP airport shuttle)
- Office of International Student Affairs (641-269-3703)
- 51画鋼app College Campus Safety (641-269-4600)
- Your electronic devices are subject to search by visa and border officials.
A new F-1 student is allowed to enter the U.S. within the 30-day window immediately prior to the start date on your new I-20, but 51画鋼app's IPOP arrival and move-in day is on Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025. Late arrivals (after Aug. 17) are not allowed. A late entry can result in a denial at the U.S. Port of Entry. All new F-1 students are required to attend the full week of IPOP.
Booking Your Flight
We recommend that new students fly through to the . Des Moines is located 80 kilometers (50 miles) west of 51画鋼app a one-hour drive from campus. 51画鋼app College offers pre-scheduled transportation between campus and the Des Moines Airport.
If your flight ends in Cedar Rapids or Chicago, you will need to arrange your own transportation to campus.
- The Cedar Rapids airport is one hour away or more by car, with limited taxi options.
- Chicago is five hours away by car and seven or more hours away by bus.
If you are booking a round-trip ticket, the Five-Year Academic (Planning) Calendar offers helpful information regarding the academic calendar and college housing dates.
- Note that international students are also eligible to register with Residence Life to access winter break housing, if needed.
Airport Transportation
Public transportation is nearly non-existent in rural Iowa, but 51画鋼apps Office of Facilities Management (FM) offers cost-effective airport shuttles to and from the Des Moines Airport.
On IPOP Arrival Day (Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025), FM will offer shuttles from Des Moines at:
- 10 a.m.
- 2 p.m.
- 6 p.m.
- 10 p.m.
Click here to reserve a seat on the shuttle in advance, using the Transportation website.
Note:
- If your flight lands in Des Moines after 10 p.m. on Aug. 17, please register for the last shuttle of the day but indicate your anticipated arrival time and flight number. FM staff will try to assist you!
Lodging
Registered IPOP participants automatically get special permission to move into your residence hall on Sunday for IPOP arrival day. The OISA staff will hand out room keys at check-in. If you arrive in Iowa before Aug. 17, you need to make arrangements for alternate lodging and/or transportation. One option is to book a hotel room in Des Moines and use the College Airport Shuttle on Aug. 17. Students often stay at the , but other airport hotels can also be found online.
Please encourage your family and guests to visit the webpage for families of admitted studentsas their go-to source for next steps, updates, and timelines for 51画鋼app. They are also welcome to attend the June virtual IPOP Planning Meeting via Zoom, mentioned above.
Most international students travel to Iowa on their own, and the College is prepared to support their arrival. That said, international family or friends who travel with you to campus are invited to join you at IPOP check-in. The OISA staff would enjoy the chance to meet them!
IPOP family members are also invited to the following activities on Sunday, Aug. 17 and Monday, Aug. 18:
- campus tours
- the IPOP welcome event
- a Family Q&A with OISA staff
- an evening social in downtown 51画鋼app
Please make arrangements for family's and transportation in advance of your arrival in the U.S. There are no taxi or Uber services in 51画鋼app, nor is there a local car rental service. Family members should pre-reserve a rental car via .
If your guests will not have a car in 51画鋼app, you should book their lodging within walking distance of campus. If your family cannot drive in the U.S., you can request assistance for their airport transportation to/from the Des Moines airport via the Aug. 17 IPOP airport shuttle link. This service is only available for international family members, and it must be arranged in advance. It is possible to hire a taxi, Lyft, or Uber from the airport in Des Moines but some drivers will not travel this far, and these services are not available here in 51画鋼app.
Packing for College, and for an international journey, is an adventure! It is also wise to pack light -- you will need to haul your belongings through the airport, load them onto the shuttle, and carry them up the stairs to your residence hall room. You can also shop more (locally or online) after you get here.
Your address will be: [Name & Campus Box #] 51画鋼app College, 1115 8th Avenue, 51画鋼app, IA 50112 U.S.A.
The Mail Room does not offer pre-arrival storage, but you may ship items to campus (mailed to yourself) as of August 10.
IPOP participants can . If you order before July 15 the order will be delivered to your residence hall room prior to your arrival. If you order after July 15, or purchase items through a different vendor, they will only be available for pick up during College Mail Room hours, Monday Friday, between 12:00 noon and 4:30p.m.
IPOP Mentors will host a Souvenir Gift Exchange, so please bring 15 inexpensive items to share with your IPOP Amigos - a favorite snack, craft, or souvenir from home.
Additional Tips:
- Your room will have a desk, chair, dresser (chest of drawers), and a bed (sized 36 inches by 81 inches - extra-long twin size).
- Iowa is very hot in August, and the daily dress code on campus is informal. You might appreciate having a small umbrella and a light sweater for meetings in air-conditioned buildings. You will not need winter clothing until well into the fall semester.
- Bring one or two dressy outfits for special events. There will also be opportunities to feature traditional attire from your home country or culture.
- Secure U.S. currency before you travel, or at the first U.S. airport that you land in.
- Communicate with your airline about luggage limitations. Most airlines forbid items like pocketknives, nail clippers, or fluids of over 3oz. in your carry-on luggage.
- Dress for comfort. A light sweater and a neck pillow are wise carry-on items. If you have any 51画鋼app gear, wear it -- you might meet a fellow 51画鋼appian in the airport!
Please check back this summer for the updated and more detailed schedule!
Sunday, Aug. 17
IPOP Arrival and Move-In Day
Check in at the Global Living Room (Humanities and Social Science Center, Room N1170) between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Pick up your Pioneer One-Card, room key, and IPOP packet. 51画鋼apps airport shuttles disembark at the Rosenfield Center (JRC), and an IPOP mentor will meet the shuttle to help you find the HSSC. If your shuttle arrives after 7 p.m., an IPOP mentor will meet you to help you access your residence hall room and you can complete your SEVIS Registration on Monday morning.
F-1 students must present your passport and I-20. We will help you print your and we will register your arrival in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). You must complete this task on Sunday between 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. or on Monday between 9 a.m. to noon. Your documents will be processed and returned to you in a grey passport sleeve.
Campus tours and local shopping shuttles will be available for IPOP students and family members on Sunday and Monday.
The downtown shopping district is within walking distance. 51画鋼app College also runs a regular local shuttle and a Saturday metro shuttle to Des Moines or Iowa City.
Monday, Aug. 18
Sessions run from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., followed by dinner and social activities. The day will include:
- the IPOP Welcome for Students & Family
- a group photo
- get-to-know-you activities with your IPOP Mentor and amigos
You will complete:
- SEVIS registration
- required tax and employment documents
- U.S. social security number application
- required Student Health and Wellness (SHAW) forms
Tuesday, Aug. 19
Sessions run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., followed by dinner and social activities. The day will include:
- YOU.S.A session about life in 51画鋼app, Iowa, U.S.A.
- in person visits to campus resources
- an educational session about F-1 visa regulations (and a Global Nomad breakout for those who don't hold an F-1 visa)
- a visit to the Museum of Art and World Music Room
Wednesday, Aug. 20
Sessions run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., followed by dinner and social activities. The day will include:
- a session about academic success
- a session about cultural transition, in theory and practice
- a scavenger hunt in downtown 51画鋼app
- a social event with the Friends of International Students hosts (for students who choose to participate)
Thursday, Aug. 21
Sessions run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by dinner and social activities. The day will include:
- a session about meeting medical needs
- the IPOP gift exchange
- an IPOP Mentor open floor session
- an evening social at the 51画鋼app Golf Course with peers from the 51画鋼app Science Project (GSP) and the Peer Connections Pre-Orientation Program (PCPOP)
New Student Orientation (NSO) starts on Friday, Aug. 22 and fall semester classes begin on Aug. 28, 2025.
Students who cross borders to pursue higher education are wise to anticipate a learning curve culture, language, visa status, and distance from home will impact your journey. Weve included a few initial examples below in the form of Frequently Asked Questions. We look forward to helping to support you in this exciting journey.
Academics
When and how will I choose my classes?
In June, you will need to submit your First-Year Tutorial preferences via the New Student Checklist.
Please read Academic Planning for New Students to learn about 51画鋼apps educational philosophy, the role that your academic advisor will play, how you will choose your classes, and your agency as an undergraduate student scholar.
Questions? Contact the Academic Advising office.
How much will my books cost?
The Academic Planning site provides valuable information about textbooks and course materials!
The in downtown 51画鋼app sells new and used textbooks and e-books. All students can access an optional Textbook Advance to spread payments throughout the semester.
The Center for Religious Spirituality and Social Justice (CRSSJ) coordinates a Lending Library for students with need-based eligibility.
Billing and Payments
What is the billing schedule and payment process?
Visit the Office of Student Accounts website to learn about the billing schedule, your portal, and/or how to submit international payments using Flywire or TransferMate.
You must clear your unpaid balance before you are allowed to register for classes. You should not travel to the U.S. without submitting your due balance for fall semester.
Questions or unique challenges in this regard? Contact the Office of Student Accounts.
Is it possible to increase my financial aid award?
International student tuition grants are offered on the basis of financial need at the point of initial admission to the College, only.
The Office of Financial Aid is committed to providing a consistent aid package that is renewed annually, with moderate increases to grant assistance as costs rise.
The maximum timeframe to receive aid is eight semesters.
51画鋼app will not increase (or decrease) your award for changes to your familys circumstances such as fluctuations in exchange rates or additional family members in college. No changes are made for loss of sponsorship. (U.S. citizens apply for financial aid based on CSS Profile and FAFSA guidelines.)
Questions? Contact Mary Phipps.
Cell Phones and Computers
Do I need a U.S. phone number?
Student rooms do not have landline telephones.
Most students secure a U.S. cell phone number. There are local stores for U.S. Cellular, Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T.
Many phone plans require a U.S. Social Security Number, and you will apply for this during IPOP.
Upper-level students sometimes advise against using a phone from home with a U.S. SIM card due to poor service and higher fees.
Feel free to consult your IPOP mentor, too!
Do I need my own laptop computer?
There are public computer stations and public printers on campus, but most students do have their own laptop and this is definitely preferable to support your academic success.
There is free wireless on campus, and you will get free network storage space that is accessible from any campus computer.
Questions? Contact Information Technology Services (ITS).
Some students with very high financial need can access a loaner laptop from the College. Contact Financial Aid to confirm eligibility.
Disability Accommodations
How do I seek accommodations for a disability?
Student Disability Resources works with all students who may need support for access to academics, housing, dining, and facilities.
Questions? Contact Student Disability Resources.
Who at the College will know about my disability, and does reporting a disability impact my academic standing?
Students who disclose their disabilities to Student Disability Resources will receive reasonable accommodations to help make the educational environment accessible.
Students who disclose their disability will not have their academic standing impacted by disclosing. Information is kept private and only the needed information is disclosed to help coordinate accommodations.
Health Care and Insurance
How will I access medical care as a student at 51画鋼app?
All students have on-campus access to Student Health and Wellness (SHAW).
SHAW staff include registered nurses and qualified counselors that provide on-campus health and counseling services to students.
Most services are free, and all new students receive instructions to submit required health and immunization records to the College.
SHAW also assists students who need to seek care in the local community.
Questions? Please use your SHAW portal or email the SHAW office.
Do international students have to purchase health insurance?
Yes. All students must carry an ACA-compliant health insurance plan.
As part of the billing process, you will be prompted to either enroll in or request a formal waiver of the Student Health Insurance plan that is available through The deadline to enroll is Aug. 14 but it is best to pre-enroll to ensure coverage prior to your arrival. The charge will be included in your fall bill.
Should I also purchase dental and/or vision insurance?
Health insurance in the U.S. does not include care for your teeth or eyes (with limited exceptions in a medical situation or students under 19).
51画鋼app students all have the option to purchase Delta Dental insurance and/or Delta Vision insurance. This can be a wise decision, since even simple procedures like a dental cleaning and/or a basic eye examination can be very expensive. This additional coverage is also applicable for dental and vision providers in 51画鋼app.
Immigration Regulations
How will my visa status impact my experience in the U.S.?
Your compliance with your visa status is essential. Your visa type will impact your options, and you do need to understand the benefits and limitations of your status. The OISA is your primary resource in this regard.
We will teach you a lot during IPOP and throughout your undergraduate experience. We offer regular information sessions, individual advising appointments, and robust advising handouts and forms that are available to students via the OISA's page (login required).
Who at the College can advise me regarding my visa limitations and benefits?
Three professional staff in the OISA are certified Designated School Officials (DSOs).
We are fluent in F and J visa regulations, we are engaged with relevant professional networks, and we have access to expert legal advice.
If your needs exceed our purview or expertise, we can offer legal referrals.
Parents and FERPA
When, why, and how does the College communicate with my parents?
Click here for parent and family resources, including information about parent and/or guardian notification.
The Office of International Student Affairs welcomes outreach from parents but we dont typically initiate contact with them, and our priority is to support students directly.
FERPA regulations prevent us from sharing personal information about your educational record without your written consent, with the rare exception of concern for your personal welfare or the safety of others.
What if my parent or alternate emergency contact does not have English fluency?
The OISA has an account with Language Line Solutions, to assist with verbal and written translation services if they are needed in emergency situations.
Residence Hall Life
When will I learn more about my room and my roommate(s)?
The Office of Residence Life shares room assignments in mid-June.
Students are required to live on-campus with limited exceptions.
As an IPOP participant, you can move directly into your fall housing assignment, and you will meet your residence life coordinator (RLC) and community adviser (CA) soon after. RLCs are professional staff who live in the halls and support community life, and CAs are trained peer leaders.
Can I stay in campus residence halls over College break periods?
Residence hall open and closing dates apply to all students, but you can consult the Office of Residence Life if you are having a difficult time booking an affordable flight while abiding by residence hall exit and entry dates. They may be able to offer some flexibility if you plan ahead. Please visit Residence Life's page on break housing for more information about winter and summer breaks.
Fall Break: Residence halls and dining are open for no extra fee.
Winter Break: Halls close, but international students can register to stay. There is a mandatory meal plan fee, and need-based aid is automatically applied.
Spring Break: Residence halls and dining are open for no extra fee.
Summer Break: Residence halls do close for the summer, but some students stay to participate in summer research or to work on campus (F-1 students are automatically allowed to work on campus). Limited campus housing is available for a fee, and some students choose to rent or sublet an off-campus apartment.
Sports and Fitness
Can I join a varsity athletics team?
offers 20 varsity sports (NCAA Division III). If you are interested in participating as a varsity athlete, you are invited to initiate contact with a coach via email. It is wise to reach out as soon as possible.
As an alternative to varsity sports, there are several competitive club sports, including Ultimate Frisbee and water polo. Additionally, the provides opportunities to be active through off campus adventure trips and an indoor climbing wall.
51画鋼apps outstanding are a great place to work out on your own or with friends.
Thank you for reading the IPOP planning packet. We look forward to meeting you soon, and we hope that you will experience more culture & less shock!
2024 IPOP Mentors
In late July, you will be assigned to an IPOP Mentor, an upper-level student leader who will help us support your arrival. 2025 IPOP Mentors will be announced in Spring 2025.
Yejun (Daniel) 25
覦螳! Daniel (he/him) is a physics and classics major from Seongnam-Si, South Korea. He studied at Hanil High School (in Gongju-Si) and Phileo International Academy (in Yongin-Si) before coming to 51画鋼app. He speaks Korean, English, German, and Mandarin Chinese (though its a bit rusty). Some of his favorite places hes lived include Jeongan-myeon, the site of his high school which is surrounded by mountains and a river, providing a beautiful stage for unforgettable memories during a difficult time; and Munich, where Daniel is currently studying abroad. It has provided an eye-opening opportunity to experience old Bavarian traditions thriving in every corner of a modern, international hub of Germany. At 51画鋼app, hes been involved in the International Soccer Club (ISC) and has served as a community advisor (CA) and a Math Lab tutor. He loves to play guitar and star gaze in his free time and even used to do astrophotography as part of an amateur astronomical society in Korea. His favorite quote is from Psalms, 57:8, Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn.
Kenjiro (Kenji) 25
＜! Kenji (he/him) is a history major with an education studies concentration from Tokyo, Japan; Greenwich, Connecticut, USA; and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He attended Keimei Gakuen High School in Tokyo before coming to 51画鋼app, and he speaks English, Japanese, and conversational Spanish. Hes lived and traveled to many places in the world, but his time living in Malaysia and traveling around Southeast Asia (specifically Thailand and Vietnam) were some of the best times in his life. He made lifelong friends there and felt truly connected to the people/places more than ever before. In his free time, Kenji loves to fish, cook, and be active in sports. Hes on the , commentates for varsity basketball and soccer games, and works as a global envoy in the Institute for Global Engagement. He has participated in off-campus study opportunities in both Panama and London while at 51画鋼app. A favorite quote hangs on a wall in his grandparents house by Mitsuo Aida: ゃ酉吟禧 (Happiness is always determined by your own heart.) He loves to be reminded that you make your own happiness, and no one else can do that for you.
Utsah 25
Namaste! Utsah (she/her) is an economics and math double major with a statistics concentration from Bangalore, India. She studied at the Delhi Public School Bangalore East, and she speaks English and Hindi. Some of the favorite places shes visited include New York and Florida, and shes a forever Bangalore fan. Though she grew up in Bangalore, Utsah calls many places home including Delhi, where all of her family is; Chicago, where her parents moved last summer; and 51画鋼app, because its the dearly loved space shes spent the last three years. In her free time, she loves chatting with friends and grabbing a coffee at Saints Rest; practicing and playing on the ; participating in the and the , both of which are student-run advocacy groups; and relaxing with Overbooked, a student run-book club started by her roommate! One of Utsahs favorite quotes is, Control what you can control. Its something that a teammate told her when she was struggling in hard classes, and its something she goes back to help calm down when shes feeling overwhelmed.
Sauryanshu 25
Namaskar! Sauryanshu (he/him) is a computer science and economics double major from Kathmandu, Nepal. Before coming to 51画鋼app, Sauryanshu studied at the Budhanilkantha School in Kathmandu. He speaks English, Nepali, Hindi, Urdu, and a bit of French and Hungarian. Some of his favorite places hes visited include Budapest (where he is currently studying abroad), Vienna, Prague, Berlin, Paris, Krakow, the United States, and Puerto Rico. Hes been amazed by their historical significance, architectural marvels, or general cultural environments. In his free time, Sauryanshu loves to read, listen to podcasts/audiobooks, and read the news voraciously. He loves history and geopolitics, and he is obsessed with staying updated on current affairs. He also loves solo travel and a nomadic lifestyle surviving on grocery store sandwiches and cheap hostels. As hes spent more time at 51画鋼app, hes come to enjoy how pleasantly small the 51画鋼app community is; you can get to know, or at least become familiar with, almost everyone. One of his favorite quotes is, I think, therefore I am, by Rene Descartes, as it highlights how each of us is different, and how our philosophies are different.
Rui (Betty) 25
! Betty (she/her) is a psychology and classics double major from Dongguan, China. She studied at Nansha College Preparatory Academy (NCPA) in Guangzhou before coming to 51画鋼app, and she speaks Chinese (Mandarin) and English. One of Bettys favorite places shes visited is Naxos Island, Greece, because of its beauty and the peace and tranquility it brought her. She loved lying on the beach, hearing the sounds of the waves, and watching the sun go down. In her free time, she loves playing any kind of competitive sports. At 51画鋼app, shes part of the . She also had an important connection with her FIS hosts, Connie and Dave, in her first year. Though they moved away from 51画鋼app in her second year, they created wonderful memories helping each other learn new things like Connie and Dave introducing her to new vegetables and local shop owners at the farmers markets, and Betty introducing them to new dishes at Chuong Garden. Betty is obsessed with the Strawberry Snow sundae at , which is the perfect mix of strawberry and marshmallow. One of her favorite quotes is from Ovids Metamorphoses: Everything changes; nothing perishes.
Dennis 27
Za sasa hivi boss! Dennis (he/him) is an intended physics and economics major from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Before coming to 51画鋼app, he studied at Dar es Salaam Independent School, and he speaks Swahili and English. One of Dennis favorite places in the world is the Gonja mountains, which hold the village where both sides of his family originated. He feels a great sense of peace and responsibility when hes there. In his free time, Dennis enjoys Brazilian Ji Jitsu, soccer, and basketball. He also loves to play and listen to classical music and jazz. He has found a second family in 51画鋼app through the FIS Host program; he attends church with them each week and loves having long-winded conversations over after-church lunch or dinner. One of Dennis favorite quotes is by Robert J. Hanlon: Never attribute to malice that which can be adequately explained by incompetence.
Emily 27
亟舒亳! Emily (she/her) is an intended biology major with a neuroscience concentration from Sofia, Bulgaria. Her secondary school was The American College of Sofia, and she speaks Bulgarian, English, and some German. Emilys favorite places shes visited are Milan, Italy; Vienna, Austria; Barcelona, Spain; and Geneva, Switzerland; because of the beautiful landscapes, interesting histories/culture, and memories created with family/friends. In her free time, she loves to play tennis, swim, go for walks, volunteer, explore new places, drink coffee, and eat delicious food. She also loves extreme sports, including skydiving and kayaking. In 51画鋼app, Emily is involved with the Food Recovery Network and the . She also has a very caring and kind FIS host family, whom she spent Thanksgiving with on their farm. One of Emilys favorite quotes is, Be the change you wish to see in the world, by Mahatma Gandhi.
Sethu 26
Sanibonani & Molweni! Sethu (she/her) is an economics and intended Spanish major with a neuroscience concentration from Johannesburg, South Africa. She can speak isiZulu, isiXhosa, English, and proficient Spanish. One of Sethus favorite places is home (Joburg) and the pace and landscape of Chicago, Illinois. Having bodies of water by the city makes a big difference! In her free time, Sethu enjoys sharing meals, dances, and music from home with friends; exploring the intersectionality of climate justice; making playlists for loved ones; and watching rugby, football (not the American version), diving, and wrestling. In 51画鋼app, she works at the Spencer Grill and with the Service and Social Innovation office, including on the Social Innovator in Residence Program. She is a part of the and the . One of Sethus favorite phrases is, Ifa kanye, which is a common phrase in Nguni languages that directly translates to die once in reference to everyday efforts. She loves it as motivation because it reminds her to be thorough when dealing with difficult things, rather than finding a shortcut that could create more inconveniences in the long run.
Parikshit 26
爨爨爨伍爨爨鉦Π (Nomoshkar)! Parikshit (he/him) is an anthropology and economics major with a global development studies concentration from Kolkata, India. Before 51画鋼app, he studied at St. Xaviers Collegiate School in Kolkata. Parikshit can speak English, Hindi, Bengali, Urdu and elementary Greek and Pashto. Along with Kolkata, he also considers 51画鋼app, Iowa, and Groningen, Netherlands, home. A few of his other favorite places include Dublin, Ireland the first place he got to explore by himself, learning about crossovers between India and Ireland and Chicago, Illinois where some of his favorite 51画鋼appians live and the U.S. city he visits the most! In his free time, Parikshit loves climbing trees (with ample opportunities in 51画鋼app) and watching Formula1, video podcasts, or Jacob Colliers music videos. He currently serves as a social coordinator for the at 51画鋼app, and he is learning how to rock climb on the campus climbing wall. A favorite quote is by Punit Renjen (from an email convo): As you explore yourself and the world, surround yourself with people who inspire you.
Gabriela 26
遺噛艶! Gabi (she/her) is a computer science and psychology double major from Krak坦w, Poland. Before 51画鋼app, Gabriela studied at V Liceum Ogolnoksztalcace in Krak坦w, and she can speak Polish, English, and Spanish. Some of her favorite places include Kruje, Albania; Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, France; and Ravnogor, Bulgaria. Each lies at the bottom of beautiful mountain peaks, has a rich history, and brings Gabi a sense of peace. In her free time, shes a devoted longboarder and a giant fan of aviation. At 51画鋼app, she works as a graphic designer for newspaper; is a student mentor in the ; teaches fellow 51画鋼appians Polish as an ALSO tutor; and is a member of the Debate Union, Percussion Ensemble, and . Extra important fun facts include: Gabriela hopes to one day chase down and photograph a non-threatening tornado, she regularly tracks flights online, and she just now found out that giant anteaters front legs look like the face of a panda. Gabrielas favorite quote is by Marie Skodowska Curie: Nothing in life is to be feared; it is only to be understood.
Phuong 26
Xin cho! Phuong (she/her) is an economics and gender, womens, and sexuality studies double major from Hanoi, Vietnam. She studied at the Hanoi-Amsterdam High School for the Gifted for secondary school, and she speaks Vietnamese and English. One of Phuongs favorite places in the world is her home, Hanoi. Shes created many precious memories and connected with so many people there. She loves the food, caf辿s, and nightlife. Phuong loves music of many genres and loves to sing and play music with friends in her free time. Shes taken voice lessons at 51画鋼app and even performed at events. Currently, shes one of the cab members for the and has helped organize events to share Vietnamese cuisine and culture with fellow 51画鋼appians. One of her favorite quotes is by Gloria Anzald炭a: To survive the Borderlands/you must live sin fronteras/be a crossroads. She considers the quote a philosophy in reconciling her multifaceted identities, as well as bringing together different identities at 51画鋼app.
Kana 25
＜ (Konnichiwa)! Kana (she/her) is a psychology major with a neuroscience concentration from Yokohama, Japan. For secondary school, Kana attended St. Croix Lutheran Academy in Minnesota (U.S.), and she speaks Japanese, English, and a little bit of Korean. A few of her favorite places shes lived include Minnesota (a beautiful mix of urban and nature, especially in the fall); Amsterdam (great transportation systems and cool places around the city); and her home, Yokohama (a place where her family is that makes her feel calm and relaxed). At 51画鋼app, she loves to sing with the 51画鋼app Singers, work with and learn from the kids at the 51画鋼app College Preschool, and serve in student-led groups like the Psychology SEPC and the . She also has an FIS host family, who help provide breaks for her from intense study on campus. They are some of the sweetest people shes ever met, and feel like an actual family who cares for her when shes in 51画鋼app. One of Kanas favorite quotes is, Give thanks in all circumstances. Life is full of ups and downs but everything in her life has helped her become who she is today. This quote always reminds her to reflect and look at how many people care for her.