The PLUS International Student Outreach Resources help international students become mentors and make connections on campus and in the community. International students have the ability to become ambassadors by breaking down stereotypes and prejudices and provide an international perspective to others. International students can act as a bridge from the U.S. to their home country, as they may be the only tangible link to other countries and cultures. Mentoring facilitates intercultural learning and encourages global learning.

The following resources provided by the Center for Global Education prepares international students to mentor others while they study in the U.S. through presentations about their home country and culture. International students can educate U.S. students about another region of the world and provide them with a broader perspective. Becoming involved within the campus and community while they study in the U.S. gives international students the ability to make connections and inform others who will never have the chance to experience that culture firsthand. Educating U.S. citizens about another country and culture may inspire them to study or travel abroad as well!

Once international students return home, they can use the PLUS Outreach Resources to give presentations in their local schools and community about life and studying in the U.S. They have a unique expertise to share with peers while helping themselves through their reentry adjustment. Their community and nation gain significant benefits when international students take the time to mentor others about studying in the U.S. By teaching others, international students will strengthen the ties and understanding between the U.S. and other cultures.

Read the following benefits of a mentor:

• Such on-campus volunteer programs offer international student participants an exciting out-of-classroom learning opportunity.
• By volunteering, they are almost certain to discover more about themselves, their country, U.S. citizens and intercultural communication.
• Involvement enables them to be a part of a dynamic global education project, serve as an ambassador for their home country, broaden their experiences off campus, and learn more about the education system in the United States.
• Conducting presentations will also give them an opportunity for professional development. They will gain practical experience in public speaking, conducting presentations, and will have an occasion to practice conversational English skills.
• It will allow them to contribute to the quality of education in area schools and on campus, and to provide a service to the community.
• Mentorship participation can be included on résumés and very importantly, you are certain to have fun while meeting new people!

Click the links under the International Student Outreach menu to learn about where and how to do outreach for diverse groups in the community, including local high schools, middle schools, elementary schools, and your college or university. We hope you find this information helpful. We welcome your questions, comments, and useful resources you'd like to share! Please contact us at .