For many years Northcentral Technical College has been involved with international education.  Currently, the college participates in six different projects that provide education, leadership and development for students from around the world.

For the students involved, the benefits are enormous.  The opportunity to have a quality education in a field of interest is something that is often not an option in the home country.  For this reason alone, NTC should be louded for the service provided in the name of education.

But this is just part of the story.

These programs would not be able to go forward without the local volunteers who serve as hosts, mentors and friends of the international students.  Many of the projects that NTC is involved in need people in the area to provide housing for at least a part of the term the students are here.  And there are many other opportunities for assistance people from the area can be involved in to support the students and the programs, ranging from workplace internships to simply spending time with the kids.

What is most interesting is that anyone who becomes involved with these international students often will gain as much (if not more) from the relationship as the students do.

Such is the case for my wife and me.  Debbie and I have been involved with the international students for a few years now.  Due to our schedules, we are not able to serve as hosts, but have tried to help in whatever other ways possible.  From providing housing for a short time, to helping with transportation, to engaging in fun activities, etc., we have been able to develop strong personal relationships with many of the students.  And in each instance, we have richly benefited and learned from the students.  These "kids" are very motivated, kind, generous, and willing to share the unique aspects of their cultures. 

Included below are photos from the May 2010 graduation ceremony.

 Above:  with Debbie and Julio, from El Salvador

 Above: with Serge from Haiti

 To find out more about International Education at NTC, click here.  Regardless of the amount of time you can provide, you won't be sorry--you will develop relationships that will last a lifetime!