Unless you have something to make reference to, as soon as you land here you will go crazy, says Mwendwa. You just get overwhelmed. Whenever that happens, reflect back on why you came. Each meeting includes a special presentation on anything from where to go on a family outing to what to expect on American holidays. But perhaps most importantly, the Centre offers a gathering spot, refreshments, a play area for children, and a chance to meet and talk with other international families and members of the Berkeley community.
Volunteers are welcome.
The Centre operates an Equipment Loan Center, where, for a small fee, international students and scholars can borrow household necessities such as cooking pots, dishes, and bedding, considerably cutting down on the expense of setting up a temporary household. The center houses the Language Proficiency Program, which oversees the testing of oral English proficiency and offers courses for prospective and current IGSIs on oral English proficiency, cross-cultural communication, and practice teaching. Subscribe to the International Student Listserv, a moderated e-mail digest of immigration news, special events and announcements, financial aid deadlines, workshop dates, and other information of interest to the University international student community. Leave the subject line blank. You will receive e-mail confirmation that you have been added to the listserv.