Butte College is home to a diverse range of students hailing from every corner of the globe, from South America to Europe and beyond. Needless to say, leaving your home to study in an unfamiliar country brings a whole host of challenges, and the International Program, spearheaded by the college’s International Coordinator Rachel Wood, provides support and companionship to all internationals from near and far.
Upon visiting the Center, I was greeted by a whole host of warm smiles, and I barely had time to catch my breath before a hot coffee and chocolate were thrust into my hand and I was enthusiastically ushered to an armchair. The Center is decorated vibrantly, with the highlight being a map of the world entirely crafted from an elegant form of wood, adorned with a small flag pin for each nation.
To get some insight into the Program’s mission, I spoke to international student and frequenter of the Center, Pau Arrufat, who hails from Girona, Spain.
Thanks for taking the time to speak with me. How did the International Program support you when you first arrived in the States?
“Rachel was really good with helping me get set up here, she was always really responsive with any questions I had, and she even helped me get my luggage back when it was lost in the airport on my way over.”
Pau spoke highly of the International Counselor’s industry and hugely supportive nature, detailing the role she played in helping him get his feet underneath him during his first few days away from home.
What services are available in the center on a day to day basis?
“It’s a great place to sit with your friends if you have some time to kill, and it provides a quiet place to do homework. Rachel even buys some snacks and coffee that are available to international students for free!”
The neatly maintained International Center is the pride of its inhabitants, and clearly leaves and impression on those who pass through its doors, as Pau spoke of the “really diverse and creative decoration from all parts of the world.” The time and effort clearly put into making this place as homely as possible is admirable, and truly appreciated by its benefactors.
How does the program support you in day to day college life?
“Rachel is a massive help. Her door is always open to everyone who needs to ask about anything at all. She helps make counselling appointments, apply for campus jobs and anything else you can think of really. She’s great.”
More glowing praise for the head of the International Program, as Pau emphasized her willingness and appetite to help.
Would you recommend Butte College’s International Program to another prospective international student?
“Absolutely.”
Why?
“The level of support you get is amazing. From the moment I got here everyone at the Program has made me feel so welcome and it has really helped me settle in to life here.”
Overall, an emphatic endorsement of the services provided by Wood’s establishment, and a fascinating insight into one of Butte College’s flourishing communities.
