International Students

The University of Montana enjoys a diverse group of international students. On the average, we have students from 75 different countries. Foreign student enrollment at UM is over 420 students. Each year, MIFP provides community hospitality to international students.  Students may learn more about MIFP and apply to be a part of the program each semester during Orientation.

Here are students who have participated in MIFP and what they had to say about being a part of the program.

Mayumi, Anthropology major, Japan

Mayumi participated in the MIFP program in 2007-2008. During this time she learned about culture and values from her Community Friend family, who are from Germany. She is interested in cultural differences, so the experience had a big impact on her life. She especially enjoyed carving pumpkins on Halloween which helped her understand American culture better.

Ndoumbe, Education major, Senegal

Ndoumbe participated in MIFP during 2007-2008. She says that having a Missoula Community Friend family is like being home with your own family. WIthout this program, it wouldn't have been easy for her to adjust to her new life in Missoula. It was hard for her to cope with this brand new situation when she moved from her country. Her adjustment was facilitated by this contact. With her MIFP Community Friend family she learned all the tips to live in Missoula.

Matthew, Management major, New Zealand

Matthew participated in MIFP for one semester during the 2007-2008 academic year. He enjoyed eating wonderful home cooked meals, and chatting with his MIFP Community Friend family. Matthew's goal for coming on an exchange was to learn and get involved in the local Missoula community. Being able to intereact with a local family helped him achieve this broadening of his global perspective.

Rense, Political Science major, The Netherlands

Rense participated in MIFP for one semester during the 2007-2008 academic year. He enjoyed cooking and eating dinner with his MIFP Community Friend family. Rense says he became a better cook and enjoyed shopping in American stores. It was interesting for him to see the different cultures reflected in the stores.