Hocking Hills | Photo provided by Klodi Abazi | International Student Program Coordinator in UCIE
“Many of our students return to their home countries at some point and we want them to make lasting memories of their time at WSU,” said International Student Program Coordinator Klodi Abazi.
Wright State University students hiked through the hills of Hocking to get a breath of fresh air on Oct. 19.
The day trip is held annually by International Friendship Inc. (IFI) and University Center for International Education (UCIE) in an attempt to bring students together so that they can experience life in the U.S. outside of the classroom.
IFI and UCIE work together to provide students with an experience that creates new friendships and memories that are intended to last a lifetime.
In order to make the trip noteworthy for all students, IFI and UCIE provide all things needed to create an affordable, well-rounded adventure.
“IFI provides transportation and UCIE provides our van as well to accommodate more students,” said Abazi.
The trip welcomes anyone and everyone, not just international students.
“Many international students don’t have cars and are always eager for experiences where they can see more of the U.S.,” said IFI’s Larissa Swartz.
Volunteers and families in the Dayton area help drive students as well.
Hocking Hills allows students to see scenery that isn’t easy to find near campus.
“Ohio doesn’t have too many natural wonders but Hocking Hills is definitely one of the top places to visit, especially in the fall when the trees are changing color,” said Swartz.
The season adds to the encounter, making the trip one that students continually attend.
The day trip administers a sense of closeness with people of other backgrounds to students, something the community prides itself on.
“Students are given an opportunity to build cross-cultural friendships for both international students and Americans, which is one of the values of our organization,” said Swartz.
