Adopt an International Student
Moving to a new country can be exciting but also challenging — new culture, new customs, and new faces. This program bridges that gap by pairing international students with local students, staff, or community members. By joining this initiative, you cna help create a more inclusive campus community while enriching your own global perspective.
Who can participate
Local students
University staff
Local community residents who wish to support international students
Benefits for international students:
Feel welcomed and supported in a new environment
Improve language skills in a relaxed, social setting
Learn about local traditions, holidays, and daily life
Benefits for hosts and buddies:
Experience another culture firsthand
Share your community and traditions
Develop intercultural communication and leadership skills


What you can do together
You can choose how often to meet and what to do.
The main idea is to have fun and build meaningful connections.
Some examples:
Sharing a home-cooked meal or exploring local restaurants
Introducing the student to your hobbies and/or everyday activities
(such as gardening, DIY project, mushroom picking, sauna)
Attending sports games or cultural events (concerts, fairs, hikes) together
Visiting local attractions, parks, or museums
Celebrating holidays or festivals from each other’s cultures
Practicing language exchange
Simply grabbing coffee or studying together on campus
Adopt a student for this Christmas!

Many international students are far from home during the holidays.
Share a meal - Show local life - Make them feel welcome
Let’s make the holiday season warmer together!
Information: exchange@tlu.ee
