I am Sarah Norman, a Global Wildcat Coordinator and Co-President of the International Student Association (ISA)! I am a Junior studying Social Policy and International Studies with a minor in Data Science. 

I am an international student from the Philippines, but I am half-Australian and was born in Malaysia. When I’m not studying, you can find me trying every boba place in downtown Evanston. However, I spend most of my free time engaging with the international community on campus. Moving to the U.S. was a huge transition for me, but finding my place among other international students made me feel right at home. In addition to my involvement with ISA, I spent the last few months helping plan International Wildcat Welcome with my fellow International Peer Advisors. I am also currently interning with the Global Poverty Research Lab at the Kellogg School of Management, as well as the Simmons Center for Global Chicago. 

Adjusting to Life in the U.S. :

Going to college is a challenging transition for anyone, but there are unique challenges when doing so in a new country—especially one you’ve never been to before. For international students, not only is there the struggle of making friends and finding your way around campus but also adjusting to a brand-new culture and environment so different from your own. To say it’s challenging is an understatement. But I wouldn’t change a single thing.

My first days in the U.S. consisted of attending International Wildcat Welcome, where I met many other international students and connected with my amazing International Peer Advisor (with I’m still friends with to this day)! This event truly kickstarted my transition into life at Northwestern. 

Given my interest in the international community, I quickly became involved with the International Student Association and the International Studies major soon after orientation. The key to finding your place at Northwestern is to seek out and embrace every opportunity that comes your way—I can assure you, there is a community waiting for you! I love Northwestern and have grown to find that my international identity only elevates my experience. 

Cultural Student Groups on Campus :

I am beyond impressed with the cultural/affinity groups’ presence on campus! From bake sales to performances, there are always events happening everywhere, all the time. These student organizations provide students with a variety of programming to keep them busy during the year, providing a nice break from their studies. I love watching my friends perform in Dale Duru, buying food from home at bake sales run by Kaibigan, and attending MENA’s annual formal. It doesn’t matter where you’re from—these student groups are just here to help you have a good time.  

Having a Global Academic Experience :

Even more than just my immediate international community, I am extremely fond of the global community at large. Despite being in the US, Northwestern provides a variety of ways to ensure you are still getting a globally applicable education. Not only are you surrounded by peers from all over the world, but opportunities and resources are at your fingertips.

My International Studies adjunct major allows me to take a variety of courses, from global history to international relations. The International Studies department also offers a “Global Café,” which provides students with an informal space to meet and chat with other International Studies majors, while also taking a break from classes to enjoy free food. 

However, my one-stop shop for all things internationally focused would have to be the Buffett Institute for Global Affairs. The Buffett Institute offers a wealth of opportunities for undergraduates. They regularly host fascinating guest speakers and support students with their research through the Buffett Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program, which enables students to work with professors on internationally related topics. 

The Buffett Institute also launched its inaugural Elliott Scholars program, which I am happy to have been accepted into. This program consists of a two-course sequence followed by a study abroad experience in the summer, providing students with hands-on experience in the field of international development. 

Northwestern and the Global Community :

All in all, Northwestern provides many opportunities to help make international students feel at home while also highlighting ways to leverage their unique experiences. Unbiased opinion: I would say that international students are some of the most successful students on campus.

Sarah Norman, ’26

Major: Social Policy, International Studies

Minor: Data Science