There are significant events in every person’s life, and for many, moving to college is one of the most impactful. For students who come to Covenant internationally, this transition is even more monumental. International students, missionary kids (MKs), and third-culture kids (TCKs) face unique challenges as students at Covenant, which are addressed through caring support systems and the Intercultural Program.

Home Away from Home

For many, attending college is the first time a student has ever lived independently. This season of life provides the opportunity for immense spiritual and personal growth, but comes with its own challenges. Students from overseas that attend Covenant are not only adapting to a rigorous college routine, but also may be facing culture shock as they transition to living in the United States. Amidst these challenges, many international students find lifelong community at Covenant. The Intercultural Program (IP), which celebrates the culture and diversity represented on campus, is a primary resource for international students. Priscilla Jiang ’27, who is from China, explained, “IP is such a safe place for me. Whenever I have questions, I can go to them and ask for help, and they're always there, so I feel supported.” 

Support from the Start

International students receive support right away when they arrive on campus. First-year students may participate in International Student Orientation (ISO), which provides more time to adjust to campus before move-in day. This allows for overseas students to learn about resources and receive support from the Covenant community, like Priscilla who received help setting up a bank account, phone card, and Social Security. There are also the annual “tax parties” that assist international students with filing taxes. 

Bridget Peck ’27 grew up in Tanzania and participated in ISO just a few months after moving back to the United States. Bridget explained, “One of the things I loved about ISO was that it felt a lot more personal and intimate than normal student orientation because it's a smaller group. These people get where I'm coming from, and they understand my experience.” This support continues for students even after their first year at Covenant.

Facilitating Fellowship

There are several support systems in place for international students at Covenant. The Intercultural Program provides a weekly diversity cafe, or “dicaf,” to immerse students in different cultures. All, including born and raised American students, are invited to these events, which typically include snacks and activities centered around various countries. Bridget, an IP leader, explained her heart for the program by stating, “I want to talk to people and come alongside international students. That's a definite positive because I'm able to provide actual lived experience.”

International students receive support from Intercultural Program student leaders, specialized seminars, and personal guidance for navigating visas and adjusting to a new culture. Additionally, international students are represented in Student Senate by the multicultural liaison, who works with the Intercultural Program to assess the concerns of international students. 

Covenant College can feel like home whether you’ve moved across the globe, from Chattanooga to Lookout Mountain, or anywhere in between. For those who come to Covenant from far away, there is support to thrive on campus. A motto of the Intercultural Program is, “everyone has culture.” Engaging with varied cultures allows us to better love our neighbors and value the cultural backgrounds of ourselves and others.

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