Office of Global Engagement

Learn More

What We Do

The purpose of the OGE is to support and advocate our international students outside of the classroom experience. We design orientation programs at the beginning of each semester where you will have the opportunity to meet other international students, as well as faculty and staff who are dedicated to helping you succeed.

Orientation

At orientation, you will be provided with important information about academic requirements, campus resources, and cultural norms in the United States. We will also offer workshops on topics such as navigating the healthcare system, opening bank accounts, and setting up mobile accounts. Additionally, you will have the chance to participate in social events, tours of the campus and surrounding areas, and other fun activities to help you get to know your new community.

To ensure that you are supported throughout your college experience at Alvernia, we offer regular social events that foster a sense of community and belonging at our campus. We help develop leadership skills through participation in student organizations and clubs as well as campus wide events.

As part of our commitment in making your transition as smooth as possible, Alvernia University provides transportation to the international student orientation program. We understand that navigating transportation in a new country can be challenging, so we want to make sure that you have a stress-free arrival to campus. Details on this transportation will be sent through further communications. We will arrange for transportation from the identified airports to the University, so you don't have to worry about finding your way on your own. We are here to support you every step of the way and want to make sure that you have a positive and memorable experience at Alvernia.

We look forward to welcoming you to our community and supporting you as you embark on this exciting new journey. See you soon!

Past Events  

• Welcome Dinner Party
• Pool Party 

• Corn Maze

• New York Trip
• Washington DC Trip
• BBQ on patio 

• Hersheypark

• Thanksgiving Dinner 

• Helping Harvest Volunteer Trip

• Skiing
• Skating
• Christmas Party 

• Reading Public Museum

• Ramadan iftar Potluck
• NBA Sixers Game
• Philadelphia Premium Outlet Shopping Trip
• Bowling 

• Lancaster City Tour

Golden Wolves Stories

Current international students discuss what they love about Alvernia. 

Moa, Sweden

As an international student at Alvernia University, you receive a warm welcome from both faculty and fellow students. Alvernia encourages international students to share their cultures and spread diversity with the campus community. Sharing your country and culture with others is like sharing a piece of yourself, helping you feel more at home in a new environment.

Alvernia also takes great care of its international students, offering support whenever needed. The university organizes activities throughout breaks when many students leave campus, ensuring there are engaging opportunities to connect and enjoy your time on campus.

Emilio, Ecuador

 

Alvernia University has allowed me to thoroughly enjoy my college experience as well as prepare myself for professional life after graduation. It taught me that commitment and trying my best is the key to success in college.  

As an international student, I know that sometimes the adaptation process might be challenging, but it always works out in the end. Also, I learned that seizing all the opportunities available is crucial to my continual growth as a person. I took that advice seriously, and now I'm proud to be the President of the International Students Organization as a second-year student. Lastly, portraying your culture is always encouraged and important because it is the best way to create strong bonds with friends and professors. I am endlessly grateful for the opportunity to receive a high-quality education at Alvernia in a new country.

 

Riley, Canada

Being an international student at Alvernia has been an excellent experience. Alvernia does a great job of including international students and making them feel like they are a part of the community. We are treated very well here at Alvernia as international students, and I'm very proud to represent Alvernia as a Canadian.

Sarah, Yemen

My experience as an international student at Alvernia University has been truly transformative. The supportive community and diverse opportunities have helped me grow academically, culturally, and personally. From engaging in campus events to working with the mission and ministry office, I’ve found a second home that values inclusivity and student success. 

Jack, Canada

As an international student, I’ve come to truly appreciate Alvernia University for its incredibly welcoming environment and tight-knit community. From the moment I arrived, I felt supported and included, and I’ve made some of my closest friends here. The sense of belonging on campus, combined with the many opportunities that come with studying in the United States, has made my experience both enriching and unforgettable. 

International Student Ambassadors

Alvernia’s International Student Ambassadors are part of the International Student Engagement and Admissions Team. These student-leaders are dedicated in assisting new students with their transition to life in the US and Alvernia during International Student Orientation. They can also be found in the International Admission Office reaching out to prospective students. 

Anthony Piccininno, Toronto, Canada

Major: Double Major Business Administration and Management & Finance

My name is Anthony Piccininno, and I am from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. I am majoring in Business Administration and Management as well as Finance. I wanted to become an International Student Ambassador because I know firsthand what it's like to move to a new country for school. I enjoy meeting people from different backgrounds, and I hope to help new international students feel welcomed, supported, and confident as they begin their journey at Alvernia. I'm excited for the opportunity to give back and help make their transition as smooth as possible.

Sikke Vasshus Ask, Stavanger, Norway

Major: Industrial Engineering Technology Management

I wanted to be an ISA to welcome students in the best way possible! Being an international student is not always easy, and it can be scary to travel far on your own. I want to give every student a great impression of what it means to be an international student in the US and at Alvernia. + I am very social, and I enjoy meeting new people!

Madhur Sachdeva, Gujarat, India

Major: Business Analytics
Minor: Data Science

My name is Madhur Sachdeva, and I am from India. I am majoring in Business Analytics with a minor in Data Science. I wanted to become an ISA because I enjoy meeting new people, making new friends, and helping others. I look forward to guiding new international students throughout their journey and helping them feel welcomed and comfortable at Alvernia University.

Sara Albalawi, Al Wajh, Saudi Arabia

Major: Environmental Science

My name is Sara, a Saudi international student majoring in Environmental Science. Beyond my academics, I enjoy reading, horseback riding, and connecting with people. I’m naturally drawn to helping others not just as a job, but because it’s a genuine part of who I am. I vividly remember what it felt like to be a new international student, full of questions and trying to navigate a whole new world. Having walked in those shoes, I deeply understand the challenges and emotions incoming students face. That’s why I’m so passionate about becoming an ISA, I want to be a welcoming face, offer guidance, and support new students as they start this exciting new chapter!