Who are TCKs or Global Nomads?

Third Culture Kids (TCKs) or Global Nomads are individuals who have grown up in a country other than their own, usually because of their parents' work. TCKs include US and non-US citizens. Lewis & Clark enrolls approximately 125 TCKs each year. Examples include a US student growing up in Malaysia because her mother and father teach at the international school; or, a Korean student who has lived in Singapore, Kuwait, and Vancouver because his father is in the Korean diplomatic corps.

TCKs are known by various names, including "biz kids" (whose parents work for international businesses), "MKs" or "Missionary Kids," "army brats" (whose parents serve abroad with the military), "diplomatic kids" (whose parents serve with the foreign service), and so on. Some prefer the title of "Global Nomad."

Programs for TCKs

Lewis & Clark established TCK Program in 1992 with the goal of recognizing and meeting the unique needs of TCKs. Some past events include:
1) TCK Tuesdays - a biweekly social gathering at a cafe on campus. Usually includes deep discussions and delicious desserts
2) Ethnic Dinner Trips - group outings to international restaurants in Portland
3) College Outdoor Trips - trips for TCKs to explore the beautiful nature of Oregon
4) Career workshops for TCKs - a session once a year aimed specifically at TCKs and how their background can help them in the future

TCK Advisory Board

The TCK Advisory Board was established in 1999. The Board meets approximately once a month to implement various activities throughout the year, including resume and career workshops, discussions organized by students and staff, trips, and social events. A TCK Intern, who is supervised by Greg Caldwell, facilitates the Advisory Board meetings and helps organize upcoming events.

TCK Intern

What does the TCK Intern do? Read over the Position Description to see if you are interested.

Deadline to apply: Wednesday, Feb 4th at 4pm.

Hand in at Activities Office, MSC187, Templeton Campus Center or email to activity@lclark.edu.

Contact Information

If you are a TCK and have questions about the group, please email Daniel Bae, at tck@lclark.edu, the TCK Intern in the International Students and Scholars Office.

Additionally, you may contact:

Greg Caldwell, Associate Dean of Students/Director of International Student Services
Brian White, Associate Director

International Student Services
Lewis & Clark College
0615 S.W. Palatine Hill Road
Portland, Oregon 97219-7899
U.S.A.
TEL 503-768-7305
FAX 503-768-7301
Email: iso@lclark.edu