International Student Experience
Day in the Life
Loomis is a truly global community and is home to students from all around the world.
Recognizing the challenge of studying abroad, we seek to help acclimate our international students not only to the United States, but also to the Loomis community. Our international students gain an education at one of the top secondary schools in the United States, and our domestic students benefit from the presence of classmates from around the world. A class discussion, dorm meeting, or team practice can be transformed when students from different backgrounds share their perspectives and exchange stories from home.
“I chose Loomis because of the amazing and friendly people, especially the international student community. Everyone wants you to succeed and there’s always someone who can help you with anything!”
Junior Claire KietduriyakulInternational Student Ambassador
Fashion show during the 15th annual Cultural Outburst Celebration — nearly 100 students participated in the fashion show, representing 12 cultures.
International students celebrating departing seniors at the end of the school year. Photo by Molly Pond, director of International Student Support
Calligraphy workshop as part of Lunar New Year celebrations
Zennon Briggs ’22 with the Zolotyj Promin Ukrainian Dance Ensemble
24 food booths were on display during the 15th annual Cultural Outburst representing Afghani, Armenian, Botswanan, Canadian, Chinese, Colombian, Ecuadorean, Ethiopian, Fulani, Ghanaian, Hong Kong, Indian, Islamic, Jamaican, Japanese, Jewish, Kenyan, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Nigerian, Taiwanese, Thai, Turkish, and Vietnamese cultures.
Students and faculty preparing and enjoying sanjeok — a traditional Korean side dish — during an Asian cooking class with sophomore Alyssa Ji in the Clark Community Kitchen.
Special Events and Programs
International Student Ambassador Program
The International Student Ambassador program provides avenues for student leadership on campus. Selected students help with fall orientation and also play an integral role in planning and implementing international events on campus and updating our blog throughout the academic year.
Cultural Outburst
Cultural Outburst is a hugely popular annual event at which students create booths representing their country/culture and entertain peers with traditional food, activities, and performances ranging from Latin dancing to sushi making to drawing Henna tattoos.
Dinners and Cultural Celebrations
International student dinners and cultural celebrations allow students to gather informally to enjoy a hearty meal and share some of their traditions with their peers.
Outings
Local outings to Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Korean restaurants and shopping trips to the Asian Market give students a taste of home away from home.
Homestays
Homestays with local families when students are unable to travel home for a long weekend or vacation allow international students to connect with other members in the Loomis community and to experience American cultures and holidays first-hand.
Meet the Director