From Fruit Pie to True Friendship
Zifei, a Chinese logistics management student, was excited to learn to cook American food. After discovering IFI at a welcome party in Columbus, Ohio last year, she joined IFI for apple pie making in the fall. Slicing apples and rolling dough was a new experience, but what made the biggest impression on Zifei was the […]
Impressed by the Kindness of IFI Staff and Volunteers
Almost everything felt strange to Leo when he first came to the US from China in November 2019 to work toward earning a PhD in management. Thankfully, he connected quickly with David, his conversation partner through IFI. “David has helped me quite a lot to learn US culture.” Leo soon learned that David followed Jesus. […]
5 Ways to Connect with your Conversation Partner’s Family
In many cultures, the family unit is an essential institution. Even as other traditions and values become outdated, the family is still considered the most important part of life in many societies worldwide. In some cultures, it is common for children to grow up having a strong involvement with both immediate and extended family from […]
Bridging Cultural Prejudices with International Students
Throughout history, people have held prejudices against others from different ethnicities. The issue continues in today’s society, including among students on university campuses. Defined simply, prejudice is a preconceived opinion not based on reason or actual experience. Prejudice can lead to discrimination, hatred, and even hostility. Subtle forms of intolerance may also occur, such as […]
When Academics Proved Empty, God Came Through
What’s the purpose of life? Ming* thought she knew the answer: academics. She was going to college in China, working hard, and almost finished with her undergrad. But God soon orchestrated events in her life that led her down an unexpected path. Ming suddenly grew very sick and was forced to drop her classwork. “I […]
Help Your International Friends Identify Cults
Much of this article is based on “Distinguishing Between Christianity and Cults,” a pamphlet written by Rich Mendola, CEO of IFI. — For many international students, studying in the United States presents them with the first real opportunity to study the Bible. As they are invited by various people to study the Bible, it is […]
Growing Trust to Pour Out Love in India
Modeling how to serve others helped an Indian student return home ready to love, share, and serve. Although raised in a Christian home in India, John first heard the good news while studying abroad in England. When he transferred to the U.S. two years later, it was clear God had plans to deepen his trust […]