A warm welcome

Lewis & Clark doesn’t just send students all over the world; we also attract students from all over the world. Most of our students come from more than 500 miles away, with about 6 percent coming from another country. In recent years, we have had students representing as many as 50 countries on campus. And we do our best to make each one feel right at home.

Sisters Tenzing and Yangdol Sherpa are first-generation Tibetans who were raised in Katmandu, Nepal. Tenzing, now a junior, chose to live in the multicultural residence hall when she came to Lewis & Clark. “That really helped my transition,” says Tenzing. “I had an American roommate, and our neighbors were from Japan, China, Sri Lanka ... We all bonded.”

Yangdol, now a sophomore majoring in biology, resides on a math and science theme floor. She enjoys the camaraderie of people who share common academic interests, as well as curiosity about each other’s cultural differences. “My roommates have all become huge fans of Hindi movies because of me,” she says. “Everyone here is very open to learning about different cultures.”

Both sisters look forward to the College’s annual International Fair. Last year they made momo--Tibetan dumplings--for their fellow students to enjoy. This year they’ve been practicing a few songs to perform, and Yangdol plans to perform a Hindi dance, accompanied by a friend from Japan. Tenzing and Yangdol offer this advice to new international students: “When you come here, be open minded and willing to share new experiences. It’s all about connecting with people and learning. Don’t just stay in your own little group--the more you reach out, the better your experience.”