What is Bobcat Cultural Connections?

Bobcat Cultural Connections aims to pair incoming international exchange students with students at MSU at the beginning of each semester. Known as your "Buddy", MSU students will be matched with one or two international students based on regional interests and majors.

MSU buddies are asked to help their international buddy with any issues they might have, including getting settled into their residence hall, preparing for classes (getting books, finding classrooms, etc.), and helping them get to know all the great things Bozeman has to offer. For example, MSU buddies have organized trips ski trips, road trips to Yellowstone National Park, attended football games, and hosted Thanksgiving dinners with their international buddies. You can also go for a coffee, study together or grab a meal at one of the dining halls!

In addition, the Office of International Programs aims to host a few events during the semester that you are welcome to participate in. Past events have included a trivia night, scavenger hunts, and an Amazing Race.

This program is open to any MSU students, regardless if you have or are planning on studying abroad. If you have travelled abroad and are missing the exposure to a foreign culture, would like to connect with someone from another country, or have an interest in international relations, this is the group for you!

If you have any questions about the group or how to get involved, email studyabroad@montana.edu 

Bobcat Cultural Connections Certificate

MSU students now have the opportunity to earn a certificate issued by the Office of International Programs at the end of the semester! If you are interested in hearing more about this, please email studyabroad@montana.edu for more information.

Interested in signing up?

Bobcat Cultural Connections sign up for Fall, 2025 is open July 1st at 8 am and closes July 31st at midnight! If you are an MSU student, please fill out this form to register your interest. If you are an incoming exchange student, please fill out this form! We will look to start matching buddies in early August.