Five Things to Know About I-House

1) I-House is not just for international students.

Despite its name, International House is home to students from the United States as well as students from over 75 other countries every semester.  Traditionally, U.S. residents represent around 25% of our resident population.

2) I-House is more than just a place to live.

In addition to being a unique residential community, I-House is also a program center that offers cultural engagement opportunities to the Cal campus and greater Bay Area community.  We host a variety of activities, programs, speakers, and events throughout the year that are open to the campus and general public.  We are also home to the Robertson Center for Intercultural Leadership which provides customized intercultural leadership and development services to groups and individuals, corporations, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and universities, as well as International House residents.

3) I-House is a mix of graduate and Ph.D. students, visiting scholars and undergrads.

About 55% of our residents have already earned a bachelor’s degree and are here at Cal working on an advanced degree.  We also house undergraduates who have attained at least junior class standing including many students attending UC Berkeley through Education Abroad and other exchange programs.

4) The food and dining experience are amazing!

Dining CommonsThough I-House is separate from Cal Dining, many UC Berkeley students purchase meal plans to try international flavors and eat in our beautiful Dining Commons. The I-House Café serves members of the campus community and the public.

5) More than 90,000 people lived at I-House.

Among the 90,000 plus residents who have resided in I-House since our opening in 1930, there are many whose accomplishments have contributed to the I-House tradition of excellence. I-House alumni include eight Nobel Laureates, governors in the U.S. and abroad, California Supreme Court Justices, ambassadors representing nine countries, and more than 1,000 who have gone on to academic careers in colleges and universities around the world. Visit our Notable Alumni page to learn more.

About Laurie Ferris

As the Communications Manager for International House at UC Berkeley, I share stories online and in our I-House Times Newsletter. I created this blog for alumni, residents, and staff to share the I-House experience with the UC Berkeley community and beyond. If you would like to contribute a guest post, please contact me at lferris@berkeley.edu. Share the I-House love! ♥
This entry was posted in Faces of I-House, Life at I-House and tagged . Bookmark the permalink.

Leave a comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.