At Alvernia, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. We understand that transitioning to a new country and culture is a daunting experience and that is why we have created the Office of International Student Engagement (ISE).
Learn More
- What We Do
The purpose of the ISE is to support and advocate our international students outside of the classroom experience. We design orientation programs at the beginning of each semester where you will have the opportunity to meet other international students, as well as faculty and staff who are dedicated to helping you succeed.- Orientation
At orientation, you will be provided with important information about academic requirements, campus resources, and cultural norms in the United States. We will also offer workshops on topics such as navigating the healthcare system, opening bank accounts, and setting up mobile accounts. Additionally, you will have the chance to participate in social events, tours of the campus and surrounding areas, and other fun activities to help you get to know your new community.
To ensure that you are supported throughout your college experience at Alvernia, we offer regular social events that foster a sense of community and belonging at our campus. We help develop leadership skills through participation in student organizations and clubs as well as campus wide events.
As part of our commitment in making your transition as smooth as possible, ×îÐÂ91ÖÆƬ³§ provides transportation to the international student orientation program. We understand that navigating transportation in a new country can be challenging, so we want to make sure that you have a stress-free arrival to campus. Details on this transportation will be sent through further communications. We will arrange for transportation from the identified airports to the University, so you don't have to worry about finding your way on your own. We are here to support you every step of the way and want to make sure that you have a positive and memorable experience at Alvernia.
We look forward to welcoming you to our community and supporting you as you embark on this exciting new journey. See you soon!- Past Events
• Welcome Dinner Party
• Pool Party
• Corn Maze
• New York Trip
• Washington DC Trip
• BBQ on patio
• Hersheypark
• Thanksgiving Dinner
• Helping Harvest Volunteer Trip
• Skiing
• Skating
• Christmas Party
• Reading Public Museum
• Ramadan iftar Potluck
• NBA Sixers Game
• Philadelphia Premium Outlet Shopping Trip
• Bowling
• Lancaster City Tour
2025 Graduates
• Jumanah Alaithan, Nursing
• Lara Alblawi, Nursing
• Abeer Alhamazani, Nursing
• Elaf Aljizani, Nursing
• Lubna Alrubayan, Nursing
• Taif Althawadi, Nursing
• Norah Abdulaziz Bin Marhum, Nursing
• Alanoud Turki Gazza, Accounting
• Fatimah Khubrani, Business Management
Golden Wolves Stories
Current international students discuss what they love about Alvernia.
- Moa, Sweden
As an international student at ×îÐÂ91ÖÆƬ³§, you receive a warm welcome from both faculty and fellow students. Alvernia encourages international students to share their cultures and spread diversity with the campus community. Sharing your country and culture with others is like sharing a piece of yourself, helping you feel more at home in a new environment.
Alvernia also takes great care of its international students, offering support whenever needed. The university organizes activities throughout breaks when many students leave campus, ensuring there are engaging opportunities to connect and enjoy your time on campus.
- Emilio, Ecuador
×îÐÂ91ÖÆƬ³§ has allowed me to thoroughly enjoy my college experience as well as prepare myself for professional life after graduation. It taught me that commitment and trying my best is the key to success in college.
As an international student, I know that sometimes the adaptation process might be challenging, but it always works out in the end. Also, I learned that seizing all the opportunities available is crucial to my continual growth as a person. I took that advice seriously, and now I'm proud to be the President of the International Students Organization as a second-year student. Lastly, portraying your culture is always encouraged and important because it is the best way to create strong bonds with friends and professors. I am endlessly grateful for the opportunity to receive a high-quality education at Alvernia in a new country.
- Riley, Canada
Being an international student at Alvernia has been an excellent experience. Alvernia does a great job of including international students and making them feel like they are a part of the community. We are treated very well here at Alvernia as international students, and I'm very proud to represent Alvernia as a Canadian.
- Sarah, Yemen
My experience as an international student at ×îÐÂ91ÖÆƬ³§ has been truly transformative. The supportive community and diverse opportunities have helped me grow academically, culturally, and personally. From engaging in campus events to working with the mission and ministry office, I’ve found a second home that values inclusivity and student success.
- Jack, Canada
As an international student, I’ve come to truly appreciate ×îÐÂ91ÖÆƬ³§ for its incredibly welcoming environment and tight-knit community. From the moment I arrived, I felt supported and included, and I’ve made some of my closest friends here. The sense of belonging on campus, combined with the many opportunities that come with studying in the United States, has made my experience both enriching and unforgettable. 
International Student Ambassadors
Alvernia’s International Student Ambassadors are part of the International Student Engagement and Admissions Team. These student-leaders are dedicated in assisting new students with their transition to life in the US and Alvernia during International Student Orientation. They can also be found in the International Admission Office reaching out to prospective students.
- Wilson Espinoza, Ecuador
Hometown: Guayaquil, Ecuador
Major: Psychology
Minor: Biology
Grad Year: 2026
Languages: Spanish, English, German
Clubs/Activities/Sports: Clubs: Pickleball Club, Sustainability Club, Psychology Club, ISO Club, Pura Vida. Activities: Listen to music, read books, poems and hang out with friends
Advice for new international students: Don't be afraid to meet new people, you never know, they could be your lifelong friends that could go longer than the distance between your countries.
Favorite thing to do off-campus: Find new restaurants for brunch or dinner in the city!- Moa Lagh, Sweden
Hometown: Stockholm, Sweden
Major: Psychology
Minor: Criminal Justice
Grad Year: 2028
Languages: Swedish, English
Clubs/Activities/Sports: Women's Ice Hockey
Advice for new international students: Don't be afraid to ask other students for help and use the campus resources.
Favorite thing to do off-campus: Go play hockey and exercise at BodyZone!
