PEP International Component

Mission of PEP’s International Component

The International Component of PEP is a part of Counseling and Psychological Services outreach services for International students. It provides support and resources to international students dealing with personal and academic concerns as well as the unique challenges posed by culture-shock and acculturation. It empowers students to deal with these challenges and to create personal enrichment and academic success. It provides students with opportunities to develop friendships and support systems at Mason. The staff includes a diverse group of student peer counselors who are dedicated to providing guidance, support and encouragement to all Mason students.

The fall schedule of programs for International students will be available in September

United Nations Day

Every year the world celebrates United Nations Day on October 24. In observance of United Nations Day, the International Component will organize an event to celebrate Mason’s diversity. There will be an international food fair where students from each country will have the opportunity to represent their culture. Students can dress in their national costumes or wear the colors of their countries’ flags. Student organizations are encouraged to participate by providing a taste of their culture through preparing food dishes, and sharing literature, music, and artifacts. The date of this celebration will be announced in the beginning of each fall semester.

International Student Mentoring Program

The International Student Mentoring Program is established to be an essential resource for George Mason 's international students. This program presents an opportunity for students to interact with different cultures and to share their experiences as well as learn about other students' experiences. Newly arrived International students will be paired with experienced International students as well as American students to create a supportive, friendly relationship with the goal of helping students maintain personal, academic, social, and physical well-being. Mentors and Mentees would be encouraged to have regular communication to enable the offering of support for any problems or concerns and to help students take advantage of the many helpful resources on campus. If you are interested in becoming a Mentor contact the PEP office or e-mail the International Component Coordinator for more information.

Forum for International Students

This monthly event provides international students as well as other students a unique opportunity to interact with staff/faculty with international/diverse backgrounds. Discussions would involve issues pertaining to international students like culture-shock, acculturation, etc. with staff/faculty members who can closely relate to international students due to their own personal experiences. These informative sessions provide students with support for overcoming their unique challenges and empower them to create academic and personal success.

Friends, Food, and Film

This weekly event takes place every Wednesday at 2pm in the afternoon in the PEP office. Film topics range from cultural, social, career, and interpersonal perspectives in order to encourage students to engage in conversations about history, peoples, art, and socio-political situations. A listing of films to be shown can be found in the office and suggestions for movie titles are greatly appreciated. Refreshments are available during each film screening and students are welcome to bring friends!

A Taste of Cultures

This program sponsors cultural events like organizing ethnic food days where food is provided and attendees are encouraged to dress in their national costume or attire. This event provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate diversity. Furthermore, peer educators will accompany international students to performances at Center for the Arts. International students can appreciate a variety of cultural shows offered free of charge to Mason students. These events will be announced at the beginning of each semester.