Conversation Partners, sponsored by the Office of International Education, matches international students with domestic students in an effort to promote global awareness, diversity in understanding, and cultural exchange.

Engage in Cross-Cultural Opportunities

As international students leave behind their family, friends, and culture, adjusting to a new environment is often difficult. As they adjust to their new surroundings, communication may also be a major concern. Conversation Partners helps international students transition into the United States and become immersed in American culture by becoming involved with American students on and off campus.

Getting to know people from another culture can be an eye-opening experience. By learning about individuals from diverse backgrounds, international and domestic students can expand their worldview and develop respect for those who are different from themselves. Teaching and learning from each other is mutually rewarding.

Benefits for international students:

• Experience American culture
• Learn about IUP and the surrounding community
• Practice your English (if you do not speak English already)

Benefits for domestic students:

• Experience a unique culture
• Learn a new language
• Add international experience to your resume without leaving Indiana

Partners are required to meet once per month, and have the opportunity to attend optional group events.  During previous semesters, matches have had coffee, went shopping, visited Pittsburgh, went boating at Yellow Creek State Park, attended sporting events, etc.

American participants who have not participated in the past are required to complete a brief training session designed to strengthen your multicultural understanding and help you succeed in the program. No foreign language experience is required to participate.

Share the best of your culture—yourself!

International and domestic students can apply by filling out an application. If you have any questions, please contact Conversation-Partners@iup.edu This program is not available during the summer.

Note for International Students: Conversation Partners runs on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to international students in their first academic year at IUP.