Every semester, the University of Oklahoma welcomes hundreds of international students, many of whom arrive in the U.S. without knowing anyone. In Spring 2024, there were 1,564 enrolled international students at the University. (insert more stats here).
The OU Cousins program, a cornerstone of their experience, often marks their first American friendship. A recent karaoke night, the program’s final event of the semester, was a testament to the lasting friendships these students have formed.
The OU Cousins program pairs international students with American students in a cousin style, helping to bridge cultural gaps and making students feel more comfortable as they adapt to life in a new country. This program is a lifeline for students who arrive feeling isolated, providing not just cultural understanding, but also crucial emotional support. The program offers a sense of security and the opportunity for genuine, lasting friendships that can last a lifetime. “Thanks to OU Cousins, I was able to connect with friends all over the world,” said international student Sinaro Ly.
International student, Sinaro Lu speaks on his experience in OU Cousins at the University of Oklahoma during his exchange period. VIDEO: Abbie Grissom
OU Cousins, the University of Oklahoma’s international and U.S. friendship program, is a welcoming space for both American and International students. Since its founding in 1996 by President and Mrs. David Boren, the program has been dedicated to fostering understanding, friendship, and unity among students at the University of Oklahoma (OU). It hosts a variety of events each semester, including hiking trips, game nights, Zumba classes, Oklahoma City Thunder games, and even campus-wide events, like the Big Event!
OU currently enrolls international students from over 130 countries, according to the International Student Services at the University. As international student enrollment continues to grow, programs like OU Cousins play an essential role in student life and campus inclusion at the University, fostering a culture of understanding and open-mindedness.
Sinaro Ly, an international student from Paris, France, came to the University of Oklahoma in August 2022 and has been involved in OU Cousins since he arrived. “It has always been a pleasure. I have always been grateful to OU Cousins for having many opportunities for us.” Sinaro said some of his favorite memories from OU Cousins were the matching party at the beginning of the year, and this allowed him to connect with not only students from all over the world but also American students.
Because of this program, Sinaro met one of his best friends, Yuichi Asahi, an exchange student from Japan. In August 2023, Yuichi had to return to Japan because his exchange program had ended. However, Sinaro still had another semester, so he promised to visit him in Japan when his semester finished. “I promised him that I was going to Japan after the fall semester, and I would meet him there, and that happened- I found him back in Japan, which was a very good memory.”
Looking ahead, the focus for OU Cousins will be expanding the program, continually building upon the efforts of student leaders. Our mission remains steadfast in fostering community and connection among American and International students. According to Quy Nguyen, one of the advisors of OU Cousins, the program plans to increase engagement by offering activities based on shared hobbies such as dancing, cooking, and outdoor adventures. The matching process is also refined, ensuring students are paired with the most compatible OU Cousins.
In the coming year, Quy hopes to gather more student input, allowing the program to evolve based on their needs and personal preferences. This ongoing development is expected to enhance the program’s ability to create meaningful connections and support for international students at the University of Oklahoma. Quy says, “I am hopeful that in the next year, we can continue to be a place where students can find a connection.”
Comments by Abbie Grissom