Global Friends Network

Global Friends Network is a program that was launched in the fall of 2015 to connect American and international students at NIU in a structured way that promotes cultural understanding, improves the assimilation of international students into the NIU community and enhances professional preparation of the students in a globalizing world.

The program runs on a semester-by-semester basis and is organized by the ISSS with partnership from the Study Abroad Office and the College of Business.

Through an online application system, students apply to be a part of the program at the beginning of each semester. We review applications and match students in pairs. Each pair of students will be required to meet twice a month for an activity (getting coffee, studying together at the library, going for a bike ride, getting lunch together, etc.).

Benefits of Participation

  • Opportunities to learn about other cultures and practice your language skills
  • Satisfies the travel grant requirement from Study Abroad, if you are a recipient
  • Satisfies the global awareness requirement for Business Passport Program
  • A great resume builder
  • You can earn an international peer mentor training certificate or an international peer mentor reference letter

Contact Us

International Student Scholar Services (ISSS)
Williston Hall

Phone: 815-753-1346
Email: isss@niu.edu

Staff Office Hours

Monday-Friday
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Walk-in Appointments

No scheduled appointment needed in these hours

Monday-Friday
10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m.