For many students, college means moving only a few hours–or even minutes–away from home. For some Southern Nazarene University students, it means long flights, saying goodbye to their families, and leaving their homes for many months at a time. SNU’s international students bring diverse perspectives to campus, and many say they have found a second home here.
For EJ Bowdler–an international student who plays on the women’s rugby team–what stood out most was the friendliness of everyday encounters. “Everyone is so much nicer here. In England, you often get a blank face, and no one interacts with you. Here, people say hello or hold doors when you walk to class.”
This kindness extends beyond small moments. At SNU, many professors go out of their way to help students with problems and make connections with the class. Classmates and teammates often extend hospitality, whether by offering rides or inviting others to share a meal. The supportive environment enables international students to adapt more readily and feel at home.
Adjusting to life in a new country is not always easy. Small things–like food, the stress of class, and dramatic weather changes–can definitely be a lot all at once.
Jordyn Jowett, a women’s rugby player from Scotland studying at SNU, noted that food has been one of the biggest adjustments. “Definitely the food.” She claimed, “Everything back home is fresher–not processed or in bags. There aren’t as many fast-food places.”
Still, adapting to new foods can become part of the adventure, like trying Texas Roadhouse rolls for the first time with friends or exploring new desserts. These initially homesick moments often lead to lasting friendships and connections at SNU.
For Cassidy Guerrero—a women’s rugby player from Guam—her first impressions of SNU and Oklahoma centered on the warmth of the people. “The people here are so nice. I definitely feel a sense of community here. Not just with the team but with the school.” Her experience highlights SNU’s welcoming environment and the quick impact it can have on students.
Hannah Weston, an international student from Australia and member of the women’s basketball team, offered advice for those coming after her: “Go into it with an open mindset. Just know that you’re going to have your own experience, because a lot of people you hear stories of this thing happening to this person, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to happen to you. It’s a lot of new things all at once, so just take it as it comes,” she added.
Despite the challenges international students may face, the SNU community–through classrooms, teams, and discipleship–creates a welcoming environment that feels like a true home away from home.
Photos by: SNU Creative