FALL AT INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HOUSE As we near the end of 2020 we are excited to introduce you to some of our resident scholars and alumni, and the many activities we have engaged in together during this unique and, by all accounts, very different year. Indeed, 2020 has truly been a 'team effort' as we have adapted to the challenges at hand. We deeply appreciate you - our alumni and friends - our "team" for your kindness and generosity this year. You are helping us ensure a strong future for inter-cultural understanding, life-long connections, and global citizenship - a future where young leaders from around the world can dream big and get started/continue their journey to success. THANK YOU for your continued support and we invite you to give today as we look to the new year! |
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MEET RESIDENT SCHOLAR GASTON OCAMPO |
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Hola Friends! I am Gaston Ocampo. Hailing from Argentina, I came to the US with the dream of pursuing a degree and a career in the field of international development. However, living far away from home is so difficult; you leave family and friends behind and leap into the unknown. As an international student, I have experienced this challenge many times over. A few months ago, after graduation, I got a job in Washington, DC and had to face the overwhelming challenge of finding a new home in this big city in the middle of a pandemic. Luckily, here is where International Student House came to the scene. I ought to say that I was drawn to the House because of its beautiful main building or gorgeous garden. What actually drew me to the House was the wonderful testimony of dozens, if not hundreds, of residents who call or have called International Student House their “home away from home”. The House truly understands those challenges of being far away from one’s roots and makes everyone feel welcome. |
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 | Gaston with fellow housemates visiting a pumpkin patch It is thanks to the many acts of kindness that I have experienced during my time at the House that I can thrive in this new city I now call home. It is truly inspiring to see how this community came even closer together during the current pandemic. We take distanced walks through the city, celebrate birthdays and special festivals outside in our big garden at the House, and encourage each other while studying or interning remotely from our designated spots around the House. Thank you for supporting and inspiring me - to the alumni who have sent treats, the Board members who have sponsored pizza nights, and all of you who have given generously of your time and resources. I am a strong believer in the value of community and the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who inspire and support us. A testament of this support is the myriad of online programs and events which have quickly become one of my favorite perks of living at the House. Listening to such diverse and accomplished individuals who deeply care about the House, its residents, and global understanding has inspired me to continue working hard toward my goals. The power of community is found in knowing other people who inspire and support you. You have a chance to inspire and support future leaders like me and my housemates. This year has been a team effort. Join the team today, by making a gift to International Student House. |
| | International Student House is where I am growing as a future leader thanks to the support of my team and my housemates from around the world who inspire me to dream big. ¡Gracias, International Student House, for becoming my home away from home! Sincerely, Gaston Ocampo P.S. As the year comes to a close, you will hear from current and former residents telling their stories about what the House means to them. As we continue navigating these unprecedented times when international student exchange is compromised by COVID-19, I am asking you to please give generously so that the House and its community can continue to be a home and a source of inspiration for international students for many more years to come. |
| | SUPPORT THE HOUSE ON GIVING TUESDAY - DECEMBER 1 |
|  | #GIVINGTUESDAY is also upon us! Prepare to donate to International Student House on this day of giving to amplify your support and participate in the global movement to unleash the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world. Give to International Student House today and join us again on December 1! |
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