 Join us on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at 9:00 AM for a day hike to Mary’s Rock in Shenandoah National Park.
We will meet at UVA’s Aquatic Fitness Center and travel together by vans and cars to the mountains. The drive will take approximately 1.5 hours. Directions will be provided before departure. If you have a car and are willing to help with transportation, please let us know and bring your vehicle. About the HikeWe will hike approximately 4 miles round trip to Mary’s Rock via the Appalachian Trail. This is a strenuous hike and will take approximately 3 hours to complete. Along the trail, you’ll enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, and at the summit you’ll be rewarded with an incredible 360-degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. What to BringPlease come prepared with:
Temperatures at the summit can be 10–15°F colder than at UVA, so dress accordingly. Schedule 9:00 AM – Meet at UVA Aquatic Fitness Center Morning – Travel together to Shenandoah National Park Late Morning / Afternoon – Hike to Mary’s Rock and return Around 5:00 PM – Return to the UVA Aquatic Fitness Center parking lot Please register in advance using the link below: Register for the Mary’s Rock Hike Come enjoy a challenging hike, meet new friends, and experience some of the most beautiful mountain views in Virginia. Enjoy a Delicious Dinner, Live Music, and a lovely atmosphere together at a beautiful American home.  We are excited to start the new school year! You are invited to the INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PICNIC Saturday, September 5 at 4:30 PM At a beautiful American home: 1844 Owensville Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22901 Enjoy:
 Guest speaker: Economics Professor Lee Coppock is a faculty member at the University of Virginia. He teaches Principles of Macroeconomics and focuses on the teaching of economics. He has also co-authored several publications and textbooks on economics. He will welcome new students, share insights from his experience teaching at UVA, and share how faith has been an important part of his career.  This picnic is open to all international students and scholars at UVA. It’s a wonderful way to meet new friends, connect with local families, and be part of our international community. No registration necessary — just come and enjoy! Feel free to invite other international students who may not yet be on our email list. HOW TO GET A RIDE FROM UVA TO THE PICNIC There are multiple PICK-UP LOCATIONS for the picnic---> Gray Chevy Van White Ford Van
Schedule: Fun, program, and dinner will wrap up by 7:15 PM.
Transportation: To save gas and reduce parking issues, please carpool or join one of the buses. Questions or ideas?
 Join us on Saturday, July 18, for a refreshing hike at Humpback Rocks! Enjoy a rugged mountain trail, cool weather, and incredible views.
After the hike, you’re welcome to join us for an optional meal at Hibachi Grill. Event Details
Space may be limited, so make sure you register before Saturday!  Have you thought about how you will spend Independence Day in the USA?
Join ISI for a special July 4 celebration in Scottsville, Virginia, a small town about 40 minutes south of Charlottesville. We will watch a classic American Independence Day parade on Main Street, enjoy a picnic with local hosts, learn about small-town government, and play fun picnic-style games. The Scottsville Independence Day Parade has been celebrated for over 100 years and is known as one of the best small-town parades in central Virginia. After the parade, we will gather at the home of Scottsville Town Councillor Dan Gritsko for a picnic. He will share about how American small-town government works, and we will also learn about the influence of faith on the founding of the United States. Event Details
What to Bring: Please bring $15 cash OR a dish of food to share. You may also want to bring:
Vegetarian food will be available. To help us plan, please message us and let us know if you can come and whether you plan to pay $15 or bring a dish to share. This is one of the best opportunities to experience American culture as we celebrate Independence Day together!  We’re excited to invite you to a special Tour of Farmville, Virginia on April 25—a full day designed for connection, exploration, and meaningful reflection.
Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Farmville offers a glimpse into the charm of a small American town. From its scenic outdoor spaces to its quaint main street and rich historical roots, the day promises both relaxation and discovery. Why This Year MattersThis year’s tour holds special significance as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of Barbara Rose Johns’ courageous stand for civil rights. As a high school student, Johns led a walkout that became a catalyst for one of the most pivotal Supreme Court cases in U.S. history: Brown v. Board of Education. Throughout the day, we’ll reflect on how one student’s bold action helped shape the course of a nation. What to ExpectWe’ve planned a full and engaging itinerary:
Each stop offers a chance to connect—with nature, with one another, and with the powerful stories that have shaped American history. Event Details
Register This is a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, build community, and engage deeply with a story of courage and change that still resonates today. We look forward to sharing a meaningful and memorable day with you. |