“I am learning a lot about how I interact with people and can foster a sense of belonging and welcome, here in my office, but also outside of that,” Joseph said.
Joseph is encouraged by the number of international students at NW. She believes NW is a special place and that students from the United States can cultivate a welcoming space for international students.
“When you think about NW, it is a private liberal arts Christian school in northwest Iowa, specifically in Orange City, which is a very Dutch community,” Joseph explained. “Sometimes that lends to the thought or belief that there is only a certain type of student that fits at NW, and I think and believe that NW is a unique place in its community and hospitality towards others.”
Joseph sees how having international students as a part of the NW student body helps students who may come from a community similar to Orange City learn and grow.
“College is a time to get educated specifically in your field of study but also about the world and the types of people you will encounter outside of where you are from,” Joseph said.
Joseph is also the coordinator for the Winter English Program, which is happening now on campus. The Winter English Program works with a partner school in Japan that sends 12-16 students for a three-week English program. She works with five other staff to help plan their classes, housing and off-campus activities. The program helps these students gain experience in the United States and allows them to improve their English speaking skills.
Just as she has developed skills to create a welcoming space for those around her, Joseph encourages students to do the same during college. She hopes students will find a way to get involved with activities, such as the Winter English program or find ways to learn about cultures outside of Orange City.
“I think it is so important to know your neighbors and to know the people outside of this area,” Joseph said.
