Fried Center for Global Engagement - Meet Rachel

Traveling from Selangor, Malaysia, to Michigan to attend college cannot be easy. The Fried Center for Global Engagement made it easier for Rachel ’27.

The sophomore, studying psychology and music, refers to her time at Hope College as a surreal experience. “I hadn’t been to an actual school before Hope,” she said. “I was always homeschooled.” Admittedly, she didn’t know if she’d feel valued or supported until she met the students and staff of the Fried Center.

She’s been impressed with the excellent environment the center has fostered. “I’ve built meaningful cross-cultural relationships. We’ve fostered mutual understanding and celebrated diversity,” she explained. “I’ve broadened my perspective and enabled myself to be more patient and understanding. Even more empathetic.”

By bridging the gap between American and international students through events and programs, the Fried Center allowed Rachel to experience new cultures, traditions, perspectives and stories, thereby making her feel more welcome at Hope and in Michigan.

Rachel now volunteers with the Fried Center. “I participate in events that foster cross-cultural connections such as the annual celebration of cultures showcase called IMAGES, the international food fair and our monthly international coffee hour. My goal is to celebrate diversity and build a stronger sense of community on campus,” she said.

She’s thankful for the Fried Center’s staff, whom she credits with creating a more inclusive and interconnected world. “Their kindness and warmness has prompted me to do the same for my community, friends and those I interact with as a resident assistant,” she said.

Rachel recognizes the importance of donors like you. “You’ve created a support system to help international students like me succeed academically and personally. You’ve enriched our global society by encouraging understanding and connection. You’ve made our experience unique. You’ve inspired me,” she said. “Your generosity creates a ripple effect, one in which I uplift others, and then others pay-it-forward.”

Your gifts to the Fried Center make Hope feel like a home to dozens of international students each year. Your generosity allows students to share their cultures and create a supportive community where they’ll always feel welcomed. Will you help to foster this community today?