Student Guide

Intercultural Student Programs

The Intercultural Programs Office at Houghton College enjoys the opportunity to serve the needs of international students, TCK’s, and minority students.  We are here to be a support and serve as an advocate as you make your transition to college life.  Through the Transition Program, cross cultural and adjustment counseling, multi-cultural activities, the International Banquet, focus groups, and other events, we endeavor to make Houghton a comfortable and welcoming place for all students.   Through a network of caring people from the Director of Intercultural Programs, Host Families, and Missionary in Residence to professors to RDs, we have a web of support that desires to be here for you.  If you have immigration issues to contend with or questions and concerns about making the most of your Houghton experience, please come by the office and we will do everything we can to assist you. 

In addition to the office, we have student organizations that you are invited to be involved with as they continue to make your transition easier and life at Houghton more enjoyable.  The Intercultural Students Association (ISA) is one of the most active and exciting groups on campus comprised of both international students as well as TCKs.  Not only do they have monthly activities and forums, they also produce one of the highlights of the school year--the International Banquet.  The Heritage Club serves the interests of minority student groups on campus with their social activities as well as cultural awareness events.  For those that are musically inclined, we have a very active Gospel Choir that travels to area churches and chapels as well as performing concerts yearly.  Other informal student groups exist and we are always open to supporting the development of other student organizations as interests develop.

Please contact Janyce Smithley, Director of Intercultural Programs at ext.5570 (585.567.9557) or visit in person in the basement of the Campus Center.