Welcome to the U.S.A., to Utah, to Salt Lake City, and to the University of Utah!
You will not be alone on campus. We have students living on campus from 56 countries and territories. During the 2015-2016 academic year, of the estimated 2,750 students living with Housing & Residential Education, 11.4% of the students identified as International students.
Staff are here to support the community in transitioning to campus and to the on-campus living experience. This includes helping students to navigate the campus and the Salt Lake City community, connecting students with other students on the floor, and planning events for the students.
Your Resident Advisor is a key resource. The Desk Assistant staff that work at the information desks in the Peterson Heritage Center, Marriott Honors Community, and Lassonde Studios are very helpful in answering a variety of questions as well.
Student Experiences
“Traveling to another country to obtain an education is an amazing experience. International students are usually excited for this new adventure and how it will look. To adapt myself to this new environment I was open to learning more about the new culture, trying new food, and speaking a new language. I had many expectations, however to immerse myself in this new country I shared my home culture including background experiences, language, and food with those around me. I encourage every international student to take advantage of opportunities and resources, while also not being afraid to share your culture with those around you” -Mishma B., Haiti
Support and Resources for International Scholars and Students at the University of Utah (January 31, 2017):
Housing & Residential Education, a team of dedicated student leaders and staff, serves the University community by encouraging, facilitating, and supporting the learning and development of all residents while creating an inclusive and safe living environment. An increasing number of international students enroll at the University of Utah and also live on campus so we hope that the following information will be helpful to current and prospective University students from all backgrounds. When you attend the University of Utah, there are opportunities to connect with students from around the USA and 117 different countries, 52 of which are represented by students living on campus. Housing & Residential Education has a student leadership board that plans trips to attend events around Salt Lake City to aid developing community and comfort, and there are a variety of student organizations and communities on campus that are in place to support you in your transition. Please also see the following message from Senior Vice President Ruth Watkins & Chief Global Officer Michael Hardman released on January 31, 2017.
Food from Home: Dining in the Peterson Heritage Center (PHC)
The change in food options can both be an exciting adventure and a disappointment when a student just wants food that they grew up with. The Dining Services staff wants to support you. If you have ideas on how we could integrate staple foods, sauces or condiments, please let them know.
Dining services works to provide healthy options. Several years ago there were two items that were integrated into the menu from feedback provided by the students:
- Congee during breakfast
- A Wok station with fresh vegetables, rice, noodles, and protein options
Dining Services and Housing & Residential Education are here to support you and are glad that you chose to come to the U!
Check out PHC Dining | Check out all the places to dine on Campus