Grace Robertson Lloyd ’16
Senior Assistant Director of Admission and Coordinator of Virtual Recruitment
Hello — my name is Grace Robertson Lloyd, and I am a proud Grinnell graduate of the class of 2016. I’m excited that you’re interested in Grinnell, which has played such a key role in my own life. So much so, I decided to work in the Grinnell College Office of Admission — I love getting to share my experiences at Grinnell with potential, future students.
I work a lot with international students exploring colleges here in the United States. If that sounds like you, here are a few questions for you to consider as you go through the college admission process.
Where Do the Students Come From?
One of the most important things you’ll want to know about any college you’re considering is the geographic diversity of the students. Where do they come from? Colleges with a significantly geodiverse student population will have the experience and expertise to support international students well.
A geodiverse college will also invest resources toward the support of all students, but especially international students. For example, at a college like Grinnell, where about 20% of students are non-US citizens, you’ll find a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and events to choose from centered around internationalism. These offer great ways for you as a student to celebrate your culture, your identity, and your beliefs with friends.
A diverse international population on campus also contributes to the academic vigor, character, and energy of the campus culture. You’ll learn about the world from your peers as well as your professors. You’ll become a global citizen while you are studying at a small college in the United States. To learn more about where Grinnell’s international students start out, and where they’re headed, visit the Office of International Student Affairs website.
Jumpstart Your College Life
Here’s another question you’ll want to ask: what does orientation look like at this school? For example, at Grinnell, our International Pre-Orientation Program serves as a way for our international students to come to campus early and get a jumpstart on their college careers. You’ll participate in fun activities that will help you forge friendships and familiarize yourself with the campus, such as through scavenger hunts that help you learn where all the different buildings are. You’ll also meet your host family during pre-orientation. Before you know it, you’ll have a group of friends and mentors to help you feel at home, no matter how far you traveled to get there!!
These are just a few of the questions that we hope you will ask. Remember, you can always reach out to your admission counselor — we are here to help!
