More Than Academics: Finding Community Through the ISP Experience

Life for an international student here at Maranatha is so much more than rigorous academics and 24/7 English immersion. Although these things are true, we also challenge our ISP (International Student Program) students to not just receive from their experience here in the States, but also to learn how to give back and contribute to this new community they’ve become a part of.

A recent trip to the Fall Harvest Orchard gave ISP students the chance to experience a bit of those “true Minnesotan” things we’ve all become accustomed to: wagon rides, apple and pumpkin-themed activities, and, of course, a corn maze!

Justin, one of our international students from China, said this was the first time he’s experienced a fall apple orchard. For fall in China, he said, “We have a festival called the Mid-Autumn Festival. We will gather the whole family, have dinner together, and eat a cake. It’s very traditional.”

Bob, another student from China, chimed in about the experience. “I really found some fun [...] a new experience for me.” Bob, being a golfer, laughed when asked what he thought of the mini golf. “Unforgettable” was all he could say.

Pablo, an international student from Guatemala, said, “The best thing that we did was exploring the maze.” One of his favorite parts about living in Minnesota this time of year is that “all the trees go into yellowish color and a lot of pumpkins grow.” Pablo also expressed how much he enjoys this because back in his home in Guatemala, the leaves don’t ever change colors due to being so close to the equator. 

The heart behind our ISP program isn’t to just give our students an excellent education with full English immersion—we challenge our students to do more. Be a part of the experience, immerse yourself in the community/culture, and leave your mark.