A new ministry, where the Wesley Foundation will partner with Athens First United Methodist Church (AFUMC) to reach out to International Students on Campus.
Studying abroad can be both an exciting and bewildering experience at times! Each year approximately 2,000 international students, visiting scholars, and their families make Athens their temporary home while attending The University of Georgia. The International Student Ministry seeks to create a welcoming environment that provides opportunities for scholars and their families to become better acclimated to American culture, to experience Christian hospitality through regular social events, and to learn more about the Christian faith. We do this through a variety of activities throughout the year.
Friendship/Conversation Partner Program
When a new student arrives at UGA, it can be difficult to get to know Americans in the community. Many international students, away from home and family for the first time, experience culture shock when they first arrive here. The food, customs, and language differ significantly from what they were used to in their home countries.
American Christian students are needed to befriend international students and to help them with conversational English and cultural adjustments. If you are willing to witness to the love of Christ through the gift of friendship, we would like to link you with one of these students during his or her stay in Athens.
International Students
We are excited that you are at the University of Georgia and look forward to meeting you. Please visit the Athens First United Methodist Church website for more information on how to get involved and applications to be a part of the ministry www.athensfirstumc.org/ism.html