The halls of the University of South Carolina’s Maxcy College reflect the voices not only of many students, but of many languages. Maxcy houses the University’s International House, a living-learning experience for approximately 200 American and international students. The students derive many benefits from life in International House, from culinary and cultural events to speakers and grant and research opportunities. Faculty principle Dr. Dave Snyder says there’s always a buzz of many languages, some native tongues and many practicing foreign languages to serve as foundations for future occupations. “It’s like the U.N. around here,” he observes.
In addition to cultures and languages, student Alfia Shareef is fascinated by the viewpoints of international students, which can expand the horizons of all of them as they’re exposed to new ideas. Fellow student Davis Hayman agrees, adding that IH’s extracurricular activities reinforce and supplement the education gained in the classroom. South Carolina is also enriched financially as well as culturally by international understanding, says Snyder, as is evidenced by the numerous foreign businesses boosting the state’s economy.
