Gordon College embraces ethnic and cultural diversity. There are many opportunities to share your home and culture with the community here—both for international and third-culture students.
If you’re an international student, you most likely live outside of the U.S. and are not a U.S. citizen (or currently reside in the U.S. on a visa). As an international student, we value your unique cultural heritage and see you as an integral part of our campus community. We take pride in our internationally diverse student body while understanding there are certain needs unique to you as part of this community.
Read what other students have to say about their transition to the Gordon community:
Gordon College is a great environment for spiritual and intellectual growth. Through Gordon College, God sparked in me a passion for Him and for learning, transforming my hopes and aspirations. I will cherish my time at Gordon College for the rest of my life.
InnGee Kim '11
Philippines
If I were to repeat my college experience, I would come back to Gordon—it’s one of the best decisions I ever made. I am most thankful for the way professors, staff and other students have been challenging me academically and spiritually. From engaging in thought-provoking discussions in classes to forming refreshing and fulfilling friendships, my experience at Gordon continues to shape my character and my spiritual and intellectual life. My pursuit for truth has been transformed from a dry set of rules into a vocation I am looking forward to exploring after graduation.
Izabela Wisniewska ’11
Poland
My experience at Gordon has been motivating and I am appreciative of my professors because they invest so much of their lives into our education. The ISO has been amazing in helping me integrate into the Gordon community, and as a whole, the student’s here are so helpful and friendly.
Tongai Makoni '12
Zimbabwe
Making the decision to leave home and travel halfway across the world was one of the biggest and most challenging decisions I've ever had to make in my life. Not only did the landscape and surrounding environment change drastically; so did the faces, food and speech, among other things. But gradually the homesickness wore off, and I became better accustomed to life at Gordon. New friendships, meaningful conversations, and learning how to respond to new situations helped me adjust. Now as a junior and as one of the leaders of the International Student Organization, I try to serve incoming freshmen by sharing my own experiences with them. I’ve learned it takes time and people who care to make someone feel at home—I’ve been blessed to have both here at Gordon.
Printhess Rai ’11
Nepal
If you’re a missionary or third-culture kid, you have lived overseas in one or more cultures. The good news is that Gordon welcomes your wealth of experience. Gordon also has many other students like you who can relate to you. We value the unique perspective and experience you bring to the classroom and residence life. As a member of Mu Kappa—an organization designed specifically for MKs and TCKs, we at Gordon are committed to helping and supporting you as you transition to the U.S.
But don’t take our word for it. Listen to what current MK/TCKs are saying about life as a Gordon student:
I’ve been so blessed by the girls on my floor this semester. It’s been so much fun getting to know each of them—whether we’re having a movie night, floor fellowship, a dance party, baking cookies or just talking. They’re a great bunch, and I’m so glad God put them in my life this year!
Lauren Carey ’14
MK, Guatemala
Gordon is a rich environment for pursuing excellence not only as a student but—even more importantly—as a Christian. I live and learn alongside students who share a genuine passion for learning about and engaging with the world around them, and I work under faculty with diverse experiences and wisdom who challenge me to excel in every area. I love Gordon and am excited to welcome other students from multicultural backgrounds who can benefit from a Gordon education as much as I have.
Lauren Owen ’12
MK, Taiwan