In the fall of 2024, Aiden* arrived in the United States from South Asia to pursue a master’s degree in computer science. Having visited the U.S. before as a tourist, he thought he knew what to expect. But this time was different. Life as an international student meant new responsibilities, new rhythms, and a need for a new community.
“I wasn’t really shocked about anything,” Aiden shared. “But what got me was people’s kindness. I’m not used to strangers holding doors or saying thank you.”
That fall, Aiden lived with his older brother, who had been in the U.S. a little longer. They weren’t settled in their new home yet, and the lack of stability made it hard for Aiden to focus on his classes. With his heavy schedule, he didn’t have many opportunities to make friends. He often felt alone.
Then, he heard about IFI’s international student welcome party just two days before the event.
“Something in me just said I should go,” Aiden remembered. “It was only three hours long, so why not?”
Little did he know that this gut decision would start a chain of events that would change the trajectory of his life.
Later that fall, he attended another IFI event: a night of chili and pumpkin carving. It was his first time carving a pumpkin, and he loved it. At that event, an IFI volunteer shared about God’s love with him clearly for the very first time. Though Aiden didn’t give it much thought in the moment, he exchanged numbers with them and stayed connected.
Another turning point came at Thanksgiving. A miscommunication landed Aiden and his brother at a different IFI Thanksgiving dinner than planned. What seemed like a mistake became a God appointment. His brother, who’d been endlessly looking for jobs, finally met someone who later hired him to work at his software company.
“That dinner changed our lives,” Aiden said.
Through IFI staff and volunteers, Aiden was invited to more events, such as Christmas dinners and caroling services, family groups, and eventually church. By February, both he and his brother were attending Bible studies and Sunday church services regularly. Over time, the pieces began to fall into place.
In March, after researching and wrestling with questions, Aiden made the decision to follow Jesus. His parents were supportive, and when they visited in May, he and his brother were baptized, publicly sharing their life transformation with their community and family members.
“I never expected to believe in anything,” Aiden reflected. “But the love I’ve been shown is incredible. God led me here, even when I didn’t realize it.”
Today, Aiden is active in men’s Bible discussions and mentoring groups. He is grateful for every follower of Jesus who welcomed him, encouraged him, and patiently walked with him.
“Now we see that it was God directing us our entire lives.”
*Student name and photo changed to protect privacy
