The White Mountain School is known as a community where all students know each other and are interested in each other's backgrounds. We are intentionally small in order to assure that all students learn from each other. This is a tremendous advantage for international students, as they work with American students and students from other countries around the globe on a regular basis. International and domestic students work together in all settings -- in the dormitory, in sports, on field courses, and in all non-ESL classes.
Additionally, the personal, caring and committed relationships that faculty have with all students, and particularly with our international students, makes The White Mountain School unique.
In addition to English as a Second Language support, The White Mountain School provides the following for all international students.
- International Student Orientation
All new international students arrive on campus two days before the rest of the school in order to acclimate and prepare for the beginning of the year. This orientation is led by the International Student Advisors with help from returning international and domestic students. As part of the orientation, all new international students will receive a complete International Student Handbook. - Wednesday Night Seminar
During their first term, all new international students participate in our Wednesday Night Seminar. This seminar is an extension of the International Student Orientation and provides support to students as they learn about cultural and social differences in the classroom, dorm, and Bethlehem area community. - International Student Support and Opportunity
To encourage thoughtful discussion and introspection regarding the rich and rewarding experience of being an international student, as well as a time to relax and have fun together, the White Mountain School holds biweekly international/ESL student meetings, and bi-monthly special events for international students (Theatrical performances in Boston, Shopping trips to the nearby tourist town of North Conway, a Baseball game in Portland, ME, etc.) - Cultural Exchange
The White Mountain School has had an active Cultural Events Series for over 30 years. This series brings performers from around the globe to campus to share their music and stories. We have regular community dinners emphasizing authentic international cuisine. In March we celebrate International Night -- a festival of all the cultures on campus organized and led by the international students. Other cultural events include international cafe and international coffee house. - School Vacations
During short school vacations, we offer cultural immersion/college oriented outings to regional urban centers (Boston, New York, Burlington, etc.). We can also arrange a host family for longer breaks and pre-post academic year needs. - College Counseling
The White Mountain School has an experienced college counselor who is aware of the challenges and is trained in helping International/ESL students through the college process. Additionally, she is adept at helping them find appropriate matches. - Admissions and immigration support for ESL/International students
The White Mountain School has a trained International Student Advisor/Admissions Officer that will: facilitate application process for international/ESL candidates, explain application procedure, host visiting international/ESL students, families, or consultants, coordinate academic-year immigration/visa documents, guide accepted students through visa application process and respond to visa application problems.
