We have many opportunities for you to get connected and become part of a fun, loving, friendly community. Below you will find short descriptions of the ways you can get connected. If you are interested in one or more of these opportunities, please sign-up and we will contact you with more information.

Special Opportunities

Free Furniture and Household Items (Sunday 8/21).

If you have just moved to Austin and need some furniture for your apartment, we would love to help you get settled. Come and pick some items from our collection of gently used living room and bedroom furniture, bedding, towels, office supplies, kitchen appliances, utensils, dishes and baby furniture. All for free.

Cricket Match (Saturday 8/27).

Would you like to play cricket? We have scheduled a match between community members and students at UT Sports Rec Fields. Come make new friends and show off your cricket skills.

Success in America (Friday 8/19-Sun 8/21).

This event is for graduate students who want to make the most of their experience in America. It is a 3-day camp the weekend before school starts that will help you build cross cultural relationships, define and meet your goals for success, and provide survival tips for living in Austin. Held at Twin Oaks Camp in Buda, south of Austin, the cost is $25 which includes all materials, meals, transportation and lodging. Advanced sign up required – limited availability.

Discover America (4 Weekends in September)

This is your opportunity to get into the home of a real American family. It consists of small groups that go to four different American homes for an evening or afternnon on four Saturdays or Sundays in September. During this time, you will enjoy American hospitality and interact with an American family on topics like cultural do's & don'ts, holidays, and family life. This provides a warm opportunity to 'taste & see' life in America and to develop new friendships.

Around the World in 80 Bites International Food Fair (Saturday, 9/17)

Show your pride in your home country by bringing a home-cooked dish, wearing native dress and winning a prize for the best decorated table. And then you get to sample food from around the world and make new friends. What could be better?

Cross-Cultural & Social Opportunities

Conversational English.

These groups meet weekly to help internationals learn and practice their English with American speakers. They also provide an opportunity to build friendships with Americans and to learn more about American culture.

Special Events, Sports and Outings.

There are a variety of opportunities to connect socially with Americans and other internationals throughout the year. Some examples include: dinners, trips to a rodeo, Austin bat tours, hayrides, Thanksgiving banquets, & other holiday celebrations. Refer to the Events Schedule for a list of activities planned for the fall semester.

Friendship International.

This weekly event meets from 9:45 am to noon on Thursdays at Hyde Park Baptist Church (3901 Speedway) and includes cultural activities (such as cooking, sewing, and scrap booking) as well as English classes for all levels.

Christian Connections

Understand Christianity.

Are you curious about Christianity, what it teaches and the worldview held by Christians in America? We invite you to join other students in a weekly discussion of Christian beliefs and how these beliefs differ from other religions or worldviews.

Visit a Church.

Would you like to visit a Christian church, enjoy the music, listen to a sermon and meet some Christians? This is an American experience you will not want to miss.

Study the Bible.

Would you like to know more about the Bible? There are groups meeting at various times during the week to study the Bible, apply its teaching to important life issues and encourage friendships. Many of these meetings include a meal or snack and other activities.

Join a Fellowship Community.

These groups meet weekly to form a meaningful community, allow people to share with one another their struggles and joys, worship, and talk about how the Bible applies to their lives. These groups usually include a meal and are a place to make lasting friendships.