Courtney, Emna and friend at ISO's Tailgate Party in Holcombe

I was already excited about the Friendship Family Program offered by International Students & Scholars even before coming to the United States. Friendship Family was one of the things I was looking for since my friend who was studying at the University of Arkansas told me how much this program assisted her to adjust to the culture here and overcome homesickness.  She also said that the program helped her to get connected closer to the culture and life in Fayetteville.

My Friendship Family is Ms. Courtney Osborn, a young lady with a cheerful personality. She has been my great host and I feel she has been my true friend as well. Besides that, I can truly say the Friendship Family Program Coordinator, Ms. Casie Shreve, and her team are very caring and I really appreciate their events and programs that they organize to provide the students and their families with opportunities to see each other.

Lake Fort Smith

One great event that was organized by ISS was a picnic to the Lake Fort Smith State Park. It was one of the best days since I came to the United State. The weather was amazing on that day and the landscapes at the park were amazing. I was impressed by the magnificent colors of the autumn and the beautiful scenery made me understand why people call Arkansas as the Natural State. When we arrived there, we found the Friendship Family Program team setting up a huge lunch that all families prepared together! The food was of course delicious, and it was simply amazing to sit in the beautiful nature next to the lake and be surrounded by mountains. After a while, we went to the lake to do canoeing, pedal boats. It was wonderful to share those moments with my Friendship Family and other families.

By the end of the day, I felt that being part of the Friendship Family is not only about having a family that hosts you, but also about having truly caring people who support you in your hard times and share your best moments with you during the time of study abroad. I am glad to be a member of the big family called Friendship Family Program at the University of Arkansas.

By Emna Ghariani

Emna Ghariani

Emna is from Tunisia. She’s very energetic and always willing to take part in different programs. I was impressed that she contributed to the community as an an emcee (even during her first semester!) at the Taste of Africa Event by African Student Organization. I admire her love and passion about her country and also her pride as an African. This led her to present at the Holcombe Geography Series as well. Please keep sharing your culture and enjoy the U.S. culture with friends and the Friendship Family! — Nami