Published March 31, 2025
Thriving as an International Student at NYU: Finding Your Communities and Exploring Others’
A Saturday night at Aashi’s (who is also an Admissions Ambassador).
As a Chinese who grew up in Canada, I was eager to find my cultural community upon arriving at NYU. Among the 600 student-led clubs and organizations at NYU, I quickly discovered several focused on Chinese and Asian culture – CSS, CSSA, Chinese Mei, AHM, Asian Cultural Union, and more. Confused about which one to join? It’s okay, me too. Each club has its own team culture and attracts different groups of Chinese students, so I spent my first semester exploring each one, trying to find one that exemplifies who I am.
Joining culture-specific clubs often involves self-reflection about your own identity. People naturally gravitate towards others with similar backgrounds for a sense of belonging. But through my self-exploration process, I unexpectedly found “bonding over differences” to be equally valuable and fulfilling. Here are a few clubs and programs I benefited from the most as an International student.
International Students Transition Program (ISTP)
ISTP offers an immersive experience to incoming international students through a series of activities, orientations, and field trips. Students get to move in 3-5 days early, interact with student leaders, and learn to navigate New York City through excursions to the Brooklyn Bridge, Chelsea Market, Times Square, and many more.
This program shaped my first memories of both NYU and the city. From scavenger hunts in Washington Square Park to informative presentations like “New York Subway 101,” I was able to bond with a diverse group of international students and seamlessly transition into the vibrant, multicultural energy of New York. As a leader of this program during my Sophomore and Junior years, I became friends with many first-year students from diverse majors and cultural backgrounds. It was incredibly rewarding to help them navigate their new environment and relive the same excitement I felt during my freshman year.
International Students Club
There are many international student communities at NYU, each offering unique ways to connect and engage. The International Student Council (ISC) is an all-university club that represents all international students at NYU. However, if you prefer a smaller, more tight-knit community, each college also has its own international student club.
I joined the International Students Club in the College of Arts and Science (CAS ISC) as their Vice President – and now, as the President (hooray!). We host 4-5 events every semester, some on our own and others in collaboration with the CAS Student Council, the Clubs in Partnership program, and other cultural clubs. Through organizing events like the Diwali Celebration and arranging tours of the United Nations Headquarters, I’ve been constantly inspired by the stories I’ve heard and the people I’ve met. Being aware that the way you live isn’t the only way is the first step – experiencing those differences is the next. This club has introduced me to festivals, music, food, and traditions that were entirely new to me, highlighting the incredible advantage NYU has as such a diverse community.
CAS International Mentor-Mentee Program
This semester-long mentorship program, organized by the CAS Global Advising team, is designed to help first-year, transfer, and exchange students adjust to life at NYU and in New York City. Students who sign up are paired with a student mentor, and together, they attend monthly meetings and explore the city side by side.
As a mentor in the program, I’ve had the chance to build amazing connections with my mentees. One of them is now on the executive board of CAS ISC with me, and another has become my beloved badminton buddy! Beyond the personal bonds, the CAS Global Advising team also offers incredible perks, like free tickets to the Rockefeller Ice Skating Rink and haunted houses, as well as frequent webinars on job searches for international students and work authorization workshops.
Broaden Your Horizons
Finding other communities that share your interests can also expose you to a wide variety of people, cultures, and opportunities. Here are some other clubs I’m involved in that have helped me connect with others and grow in unexpected ways:
Admissions Ambassador – A program that assists the Office of Undergraduate Admissions by introducing NYU to prospective students and spreading the violet pride.
Psychology Student Society – A community that shares connections, career opportunities, and activities with others interested in Psychology.
Smart Women Security – An organization that educates women about finance and investments through seminars and hands-on projects.
Sprout Up NYU – The NYU chapter of a nationwide nonprofit dedicated to teaching Environmental Science to Title-1 elementary school students.
TechSHRM – The Society for Human Resource Management chapter at the Tandon School of Engineering.
International student communities allow you to create your own third-space based on your unique cultural background, instead of fitting into the mould of one culture or another. Coming to a new city and embracing a new environment – especially one like NYU – can be intimidating at times. But remember, you’re never alone. Video call your loved ones, explore the city, and be proactive to the best of your abilities. While it may be helpful and comforting to find clubs that share your culture, you’ll be surprised by the wonders that other cultures may expose you to!
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