About Us

The Friendship Foundation for International Students (FFIS) is a non-profit organization that exists to bridge cultures and promote world peace and understanding through international friendship, personal diplomacy, and exchange of ideas.

Through our programs and activities, FFIS builds trust and fosters goodwill between the local community and University of Oregon international students, alumni, scholars, and their families.

FFIS is loosely affiliated with the University, sharing office space and an administrative staff position with International Affairs.

FFIS receives little funding from the University--it is supported almost entirely by contributions from members and friends. The volunteer FFIS Steering Committee organizes and oversees all the programs and activities provided by the Foundation. The Steering Committee currently consists of approximately 25 of our more than 400 members.

Steering Committee Members Becky Megerssa and Stephanie Wood at the December FFIS Thank You Reception.

History

The Friendship Foundation for International Students (FFIS) began in 1950.

After World War II, there was a great influx of international students to this country. Programs linking international students to American individuals and families greatly facilitated both the international students' transition to this new environment and our own understanding of other countries and cultures.

Today there are ever-increasing numbers of international students in the United States. It is important that international students gain a first hand impression of our country by getting to know local community members.

International Students at the UO

There are approximately 1400 international students from over 80 different countries enrolled at the UO. They come here to study in a wide variety of fields. The following is an approximate breakdown of the UO international student community by region:

1.    East Asia 52%
2.    South and South East Asia 22%
3.    Europe 13%
4.    Latin America 4%
5.    Canada 4%
6.    Middle East 2%
7.    Africa 2%
8.    Oceania and Pacific 1%