For many students who come to OCCC from different parts of the world, being far from home can be exciting but also hard at times. That’s why the International Student Association is such an important part of campus. It’s a place where students from all backgrounds can come together, make friends and feel supported as they adjust to life in a new country.
The ISA’s main goal is to connect international students with one another. The club focuses on helping students build friendships, share their experiences and find resources when they need help.
The organization hosts many activities throughout the year to help students feel included and connected. Most of the events are fun and casual, such as networking meetups, community gatherings and cultural celebrations. These gatherings give everyone a chance to meet new people, try new things and learn about different cultures on campus.
One of the things that makes the ISA so special is how much its members care about making every student feel included. Whenever there’s an event, opportunity or campus activity that might interest international students, the ISA team makes sure that everyone knows about it.
The ISA has some fun and exciting events coming up this month. The biggest one is International Students’ Day, a celebration of different cultures from around the world that takes place every year on Nov. 17. Later in the month, a gathering featuring Mediterranean desserts and drinks will follow, providing students with an opportunity to relax, converse and enjoy delicious treats together. All of these events allow students to share their own cultures while learning about the cultures of others in a friendly and welcoming way.
Joining the ISA is easy. The club usually recruits new members during Welcome Week at the beginning of the semester. That’s when students stop by the ISA table, ask questions and sign up.
“The process of becoming a member of the ISA is very simple,” said ISA President Basel Abougharam. “We usually advertise the club during Welcome Week, and that’s when we get new members. Students show interest, and we add them to our Campus Groups and GroupMe, so they are part of the association.”
For ISA leaders, being part of the team means more than just organizing events; it’s about helping others as much as they can.
“As an international student myself,” Abougharam said, “I know how challenging it can be to adjust to a new environment, so I wanted to be someone others can turn to for guidance and support.”
Abougharam’s job as president includes planning events, communicating with members and staff and making sure that everything runs smoothly. Even though it takes time and effort, he said it’s all worth it in the end.
“The most rewarding part of it,” he said, “is meeting amazing people from all around the world.”
The ISA also works closely with other student organizations on campus. This semester, the group is teaming up with the Student Government Association, Latinas Unidas, the African Student Association, the Black Student Association and Artists in the Making to host an International Students’ Day celebration.
Through all these efforts, the ISA continues to provide a space where students can connect, celebrate their cultures and feel like they belong. For many, it’s not just a club – it’s a second family at OCCC.
