WHO WE ARE
International students often struggle with culture shock, stress, and loneliness when leaving their homes to study in the US. International Friendships, Inc. (IFI) is a national organization partnering with local churches, universities, and volunteers to provide life-changing hospitality and friendship to international students. We work strategically to make the world feel at home and extend God’s love globally — right where we are.
Not the Only One
Ruby* remembers the moment her plane touched down at Chicago O'Hare back in August of 2025. The cabin filled with applause, something she hadn't known people did. "It was as if they were clapping for me," Ruby said. "It was so special." The welcome felt like a sign. What followed was harder. Navigating the huge airport alone was a struggle; she got stuck in an elevator, spent the night at the terminal, and arrived on campus still without a US bank account. The challenges kept coming– unfamiliar technology, difficulty finding halal** food, and a roommate who was [...]
