Coming from all across the globe, Elon University international students began their journey on campus during international move-in and orientation Aug. 20 and 21. 

Angela Shrader, international student services coordinator, said international students traveled to campus Aug. 20, two days before other new students. 

Following move-in, the students complete one day of international orientation before students begin orientation with the rest of class of 2029. Shrader said this day is spent building connections, learning any extra details and regulations for students. Students are also taken shopping for any items students were not able to bring from home. 

“We just try to make a lot of connections, because they don't know anybody,” Shrader said. “They may not have any family at all in the United States. So a lot of our like breakfast, lunch, dinner, is hanging out and making and building that community.”

Isabel Guerrero Domecq, an international student from Spain, plans to study business. She said she chose Elon for its large international student population. 

“I knew that there was such a good community, also lots of international students,” Guerrero Domecq said. “I am looking forward to meet new people from different countries.”

Amelie Meier from Germany, who plans to study psychology, said she came to Elon for athletics. 

“I do track, so I really like the track team,” Meier said. “They had really good vegan food options, so that was also part of it.” 

Kathy Atwiine, an incoming international student from Uganda, is planning to study economics. She said she is looking forward to experiencing fairs in America. Guerrero Domecq said that international student orientation has been welcoming. 

“Everyone's so nice here. Everyone's very welcoming, friendly,” Guerrero said. “Everyone has smiles on their faces. It's been really nice. They're doing such a good job. I feel like I'm at home already.”

International students will join the class of 2029 and transfer students in the new student orientation starting Aug. 22, before classes begin Aug. 26.