Nethra Balaji has had her eye on Brock for years.

The first-year Medical Sciences student, who loves the outdoors, was drawn to the University because of its location in a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Once she decided to pursue a career in medicine, she says she knew Brock, and its Med Plus program, would help her achieve her goals.

“With the structured course work, tight-knit community and wonderful environment, I couldn’t think of studying anywhere else,” she says. “Brock is truly my dream school and I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to study here.”

Brock International’s student ambassadors helped to make the News International Student Welcome on Sunday, Aug. 31 a success. From left are second-year Data Science and Financial Analytics student Andri Hudlin, first-year Medical Sciences student Nethra Balaji, third-year Accounting co-op student Malik Abdullah and MBA student Louis Tieu.

Balaji, who was born in India and grew up in Abu Dhabi, says she already feels at home on campus thanks to resources for incoming Badgers and events like the New International Student Welcome on Sunday, Aug. 31.

“On the day of the New International Student Welcome I had the wonderful opportunity to connect with international students as an International Student Ambassador,” she says. “Being able to be a friendly face at the event is something I enjoyed and loved. I was able to start making my own friends as well.”

The orientation officially welcomed more than 100 newly arrived international undergraduate and graduate students from 29 countries.

Carolyn Villella, International Student Life Specialist, said the successful event reflected the inclusive spirit of the Brock community.

“Events like the New International Student Welcome are a priority for Brock International because they create a strong sense of belonging from day one. By connecting students with peers, resources and support, we help them feel at home and set the foundation for their academic and personal success at Brock,” she said.

Throughout the day, students had opportunities to connect over a meal, learn about student resources, participate in campus tours and discover ways to get involved at Brock.

Balaji hopes to be a part of helping her fellow students settle in and make the most of their time at the University.

“I wish to connect international students by building a strong sense of community and creating spaces where we can share our cultures and support each other in our transition to life at Brock,” she says. “Through these efforts, I hope to grow both personally and professionally while contributing positively to the campus experience.”