Local residents who enjoy learning about other cultures are invited to connect with Missouri University of Science and Technology’s international community through the university’s International Friends Program.

The program brings together community members and international students so they can share meals, conversations and other activities. Meetings are typically once a month, but times and activities are based on both parties’ availability. Participants are not asked to assist the students financially or provide housing.

Missouri S&T’s International Friends Program will introduce students and community members at a reception at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, in S&T’s Southwestern Bell Cultural Center, 1207 N. Elm St. in Rolla.

“It’s a great way to develop long-term relationships between students and community members,” says Richie Myers, program coordinator in the international affairs office at Missouri S&T. “If you enjoy our international Celebration of Nations parade and festival, this program will give you a chance to get to know individual students and learn more about their cultures. It’s also an opportunity to introduce students to American customs.”

Prospective participants are asked to fill out and return a questionnaire by Friday, Oct. 25. The downloadable form is available online. Forms are also available in S&T’s Applied Language Institute located in Room 113 of the Southwestern Bell Cultural Center at 1207 N. Elm St.

For more information on the program, call 573-341-6640 or email Myers at myersrj@mst.edu.