International BYU Students Experience American Culture Through Unique Exchange Program

International students at Brigham Young University BYU were given a unique opportunity to experience American culture through the Incoming Exchange Student Program. Four international students from this program, based in Chile, France, Korea and Italy, had the chance to visit Universal Studios and Walt Disney World for the first time.

The program is an initiative by the Whitmore Global Business Center that allows students from partner universities around the world to study at BYU for a semester while paying tuition fees through their home institutions. Established since 2006 in collaboration with universities in China, Mexico, Brazil, it has expanded and now includes partnerships with educational institutions globally such as France, Germany, Portugal, Spn.

The program's objective goes beyond academic learning; it provide cultural immersion experiences that enable students to engage with American life, facilitating a deeper understanding of the culture. A key component of this experience is offering excursions to iconic American landmarks and attractions to give students taste of America.

One such opportunity was for exchange students from France and Italy who could att intramural tournaments and various events on campus alongside their studies. Eliott Perray, an exchange student majoring in business from France, shared that his experience allowed him to discover the life of a student in the United States with all the events organized on campus. Similarly, Matteo Maggi, an Italian student specializing in business also found this experience enriching when he sd, 'Being in a small city like Provo allows me to really see the essence of American life - everything is authentic.'

The International Student and Scholar Service ISSS plays a critical role in overseeing these cultural activities that international students participate throughout their stay. The ISSS coordinates monthly cultural events and a larger trip or activity at the beginning of each semester for an immersive experience.

This semester, there are plans for more excursions around Utah's beautiful landscapes like Park City and national parks as well as celebrating American traditions with an American-style birthday party.

The Incoming Exchange Student Program at BYU continues to serve its dual purpose - fostering academic growth while promoting cultural exchange, ultimately creating ambassadors who can share their unique experiences from studying in the United States back home.

In summary, the program provides international students at Brigham Young University a unique opportunity to experience American culture through various immersive activities and excursions. This is not only enriching for these young scholars but also fosters an appreciation of diversity and global understanding.

Keywords: BYU, International Students, Chile, France, Korea, Italy, Sam Brown, Whitmore Global Business Center
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