PITTSBURG, Kan. – Throughout the week, international students arrived at the Joplin Airport to prepare for the upcoming Pitt State University semester.
PSU gives these students the opportunity to acclimate to American society and culture through various orientation activities.
“It’s an exciting time for them and for us,” said Aaron Hurt, director of International Programs & Studies. “We love the diversity that our international students bring to campus, and the friendships we forge with them while they’re here that wind up being lifelong connections.”
Hurt anticipates about 70 new students to attend PSU this semester from the following countries:
- Bangladesh
- Brazil
- China
- Finland
- France
- India
- Jordan
- Korea
- Malaysia
- Micronesia
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- Palau
- Paraguay
- Saudi Arabia
- Sri Lanka
- Taiwan
- Uzbekistan
Orientation will kick off on Wednesday with a day of welcome activities, culminating in an event that’s already drawn excitement from students who come from countries with a serious soccer presence: student teams will play soccer on the Robert W. Plaster Center’s indoor field from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
“Last time we did this, there were at least 14 different countries out there playing,” said Brenda Hawkins, PSU’s immigration and advising coordinator. “They are in awe of the Plaster Center and can’t believe they get to play there.”
Orientation activities continue Thursday and Friday. Each evening, local churches and the International Friends of Pittsburg will treat students to dinner.
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