Here at Hood College, we understand that entering college can be overwhelming, and sometimes scary. We also understand that, as an international student, coming from outside the United States can make the process even more daunting. Luckily, you can feel at ease knowing that Hood has a variety of resources to help you adjust to life at college, and in the United States. We offer:
- Airport pick-up: Worried by the idea of navigating an airport and finding your way to Hood alone? International students are picked up from one of the two nearby airports by the Director of International Admissions to ensure a safe and comfortable entry into the U.S., and Hood College.
- Religious services and groups for all faiths: Hood offers weekly Christian services as well as monthly Interfaith services, available to all students. Hood also offers religious services on major holidays of different faiths, such as Muslim Ramadan Iftar, Jewish Sukkot and Yom HaShoah, and Christian Ash Wednesday.
- Language houses: Language houses are specific halls with approximately 12 students to a house. Students agree to speak only the foreign language of choice and learn about the culture of the country or countries speaking that language. Students can attend optional language classes, and there is a live-in native speaker in every house. Hood offers French, German, and Spanish language houses, and there is no additional cost for living in one.
- Multicultural clubs: Hood offers over 60 clubs and organizations, including many that are intercultural or specific to one faith or culture. To name a few: International Club, Hood African Students Association, Jewish Student Union, La Union Latina, Muslim Student Association, Model United Nations, and Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. With so many choices, you are sure to find a few that fit your interests.The International Club in particular offers international students a support group. Through regular meetings and spontaneous gatherings, new students learn about Hood traditions and campus life. They also works to make the community aware of world cultures by sponsoring day trips to Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Md., organizing international movie festivals, participating in the International Cultural Show and coordinating an international dinner.
- Staff on-hand specifically for international students: Kiran Chada, Director of Multicultural Affairs and International Student Programs, as well as Michael Deegan, Director of International Admissions.