Support at Kenyon

Kenyon students come from all 50 states and more than 40 foreign countries. In fact, only about 15% of Kenyon students come from Ohio. Currently there are approximately 60 international students with us at Kenyon (making up about 4% of the student population), each bringing a more global perspective to their classes, student organizations, and residence hall communities. Kenyon values the diversity of geography, socio-economics, religious traditions, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, talents, experience, and cultural background. We in the Office of International Education believe strongly in the importance of international students and faculty on campus - not only for your own academic pursuits, but to provide a richer learning environment for all students, faculty, and staff at Kenyon. Thank you for choosing Kenyon! We look forward to your arrival on campus.

International Student Pre-Orientation is held each August just before the general New Student Orientation. The international "pre-o" is a chance to connect socially with other international students, to learn about campus resources, and to meet representatives from various support offices across campus. Students will take a campus tour, discuss the American academic system, and become familiar with the health and counseling centers, athletic center, dining hall, and various student support offices.

Host families are available for all interested international students and are required for those students arriving prior to the international pre-orientation move-in date. Host families and students often continue their relationship through the four years the student is at Kenyon. The family provides a further connection to the community and may include the student in holiday celebrations and other family gatherings.

Students from any cultural background are encouraged to join International Students at Kenyon (ISAK) to help promote international awareness at Kenyon. There are several other organizations on campus promote cultural awareness. There are over 120 student organizations at Kenyon, including music clubs, religious organizations, sports clubs, political organizations, and dance and drama clubs. Joining an organization is one of the best ways to meet friends with common interests.

Students at Kenyon in F-1 or J-1 status are guided by the immigration regulations for non-immigrant students. We will discuss immigration, employment, and tax obligations at international pre-orientation and at appropriate times throughout the year. Students who have any questions on these topics are strongly encouraged to ask their questions to the Office of International Education, as acting outside the confines of the immigration regulations can result in serious legal consequences.