PCC international students receive belonging, guidance in uncertain world
Story by Misty Bouse. Photos by Ric Getter and by submissions.
International education staff are committed to creating a welcoming environment.
After earning a finance and banking degree from Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, “Neit” (Tien) Duong traveled from Vietnam to Portland to explore his passion of filmmaking.
He searched for a college that would provide guidance, support and resources he needed to succeed, and he found it at Portland Community College.
“Starting over in a new country can be hard,” he said. “But believing in yourself makes it possible. I’m proud of my journey. Here, I can share my culture, build confidence, and grow in ways I never imagined.”
Back home in Vietnam, Duong had found his passion in film while working as a movie theater finance manager for eight years. As an international student, he is studying multimedia and video production and hopes to build a career in visual effects and contribute to Vietnam’s growing animation industry.
International Education Week
Every year the college participates in this annual event that is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education. The week of Nov. 17-21 promotes programs that prepare students for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences.
He is one of 350 international students from 68 countries from around the world who are enrolled at PCC this academic year. Duong is a peer advisor with the college’s Office of International Student Services (OISS), which plays a key role in helping students adjust to life in Portland and to succeed academically. From orientation to mentorship programs, OISS supports students from their first day through graduation.
Alicia Adams, director of OISS, said the office is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment.
“Each OISS staff member has a passion for the work we do,” Adams said. “We are an awesome team of people. Many of us have been international students, immigrants, or are multicultural, allowing us to understand the experiences of those we serve.
“We work hard to foster a welcoming environment where students can not only succeed academically but also build meaningful relationships, feel a sense of belonging, and truly make PCC their home away from home,” she continued.
The OISS team includes 12 professional staff members from seven countries, 11 of whom speak at least one language other than English. They are joined by more than 30 student employees serving as mentors, peer leaders, receptionists and project assistants, representing 21 countries.
According to Adams, student employees are key to creating a sense of belonging.
“They help ensure international students feel supported, valued and connected,” she said.
Many students arrive with little more than a suitcase and a dream, and OISS offers resources that extend beyond the classroom.
New students attend a pre-arrival webinar to connect with mentors, learn practical tips and ask questions. A weeklong orientation introduces them to campus services and builds friendships. Welcome events, city tours and transportation guidance help them navigate Portland.
Throughout the year, OISS hosts programs such as Talk Time Café, where students practice English and meet peers in a relaxed setting. Peer mentorship and first-term check-ins provide ongoing support, while cultural activities encourage students to share their traditions and foster cross-cultural friendships.
“Neit” Tien Duong.
“We offer a wide range of support to help international students feel at home from the moment they are admitted to PCC through their completion,” Adams said.
International students face unique hurdles: adjusting to a new culture, balancing finances, and being far from family. OISS addresses those challenges with empathy and resources. And with a federal administration that has been aggressive towards international students this past year, the more support PCC provides is key.
“Having these relationships and a strong support system in the OISS and at PCC is crucial for students,” Adams said. “It is so important for our students to feel a sense of belonging and support.”
The office works closely with counseling services, scholarship programs and basic needs centers to ensure holistic support.
Adams also dispelled a common misconception as she said, “The idea that international students are wealthy is a myth, especially at a community college. In many cases, the phrase ‘it takes a village’ really is true for how a student found themselves at PCC.”
She also added that international students bring valuable perspectives to class discussions and campus life, enriching learning for all.
“International students add global perspectives to PCC classrooms and campus life,” Adams explained. “In turn, PCC provides resources, events, and one-on-one guidance to help students succeed and feel at home in Portland.”
Looking ahead, OISS plans to refine its programs based on student feedback.
“We recognize that there’s no single international student experience,” Adams said. “That’s why we offer mentorship and community-building opportunities that reflect our students’ diversity.”
Speaking of, read more about the inspiring and interesting backgrounds of several of PCC’s international student community:
Alejandra “Alé” Heredia Cepeda — Mexico
Alejandra Heredia Cepeda.
At 26, Heredia Cepeda of Mérida, Mexico, brings entrepreneurial energy and a love of communication to PCC. After earning a business administration degree from the Autonomous University of Yucatán, she worked in social media and event management before coming to the U.S. in 2024 to improve her English.
Now studying marketing, she plans to graduate in 2026 and pursue a career in digital marketing with hopes of launching her own international business.
As an International Peer Leader with OISS, Heredia helps students adjust to college life.
“We need to be extroverts and reach out to make others feel welcome,” she said. “I’m shy, but I make the effort to connect. Stop by and say hello!”
She values PCC’s diversity and kindness.
“Faculty and students are helpful,” Cepeda said. “No matter where you come from, you feel like you belong.”
Misrak Woldu — Ethiopia
Misrak Woldu.
At 20, Misrak Woldu represents the next generation of global thinkers at PCC. The youngest of seven siblings from Ethiopia, she studies computer science while exploring biology and health science courses, hoping to blend technology, science, and service to improve lives in underserved communities.
Woldu also serves as an International Peer Leader.
“Helping others makes me feel like I’m giving back,” she said. “Through this role, I’ve learned to listen, connect and build community.”
She finds Portland’s green spaces inspiring.
“It’s so beautiful and full of nature,” she said. “PCC’s inclusive community makes it easy to form friendships and feel at home.”