Join us this Monday, May 4 at 6:45 PM for a special edition of our weekly Sports Night!
This week, we’ll be playing volleyball as our featured game, so come ready to jump in and have fun—whether you’re competitive or just want to hang out.
Location: Snyder Tennis Court Time: 6:45 PM
Bring your friends and enjoy a great evening of sports and community.
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 Matters This 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 Expect We’ve planned a full and engaging itinerary: 8:45 AM – Meet at AFC Scenic hike along the beautiful High Bridge Trail Lunch at a local North Indian restaurant Campus walk through Longwood University with insights into Virginia’s history Guided visit to the Robert Russa Moton MuseumEach stop offers a chance to connect—with nature, with one another, and with the powerful stories that have shaped American history.Event Details Time: 8:45 AM – 6:00 PM What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, and sunscreen
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.
The C-Ville Host Program matches you with a local American from the Charlottesville Community for friendship, mentoring, and cultural exchange.
A little about the C-Ville Host program: International Students Inc (ISI) has been matching UVA international students with local Americans for the past 28 years through the C-Ville Host Program (also known as the Friendship Partner Program). C-Ville Hosts are knowledgeable, welcoming volunteers who enjoy meeting new friends from overseas. Please confirm that you would like to participate in this Program by filling out the form linked below. Once confirmed we will be reaching out within the next month letting you know the family that you have been paired with for the C-Ville Host Program.
BENEFITS OF THE C-VILLE HOST PROGRAM Participating in this program allows you to:
Get better acquainted with American families, culture, and beliefs
Receive practical assistance as you organize your life in a new place
Receive mentoring, which will benefit your academic, business, and career pursuits
Exchange uniqueness of your culture with your Host
Enjoy meals, special events, and outings with a local family
Establish a warm relationship that can last for many years
Hosts and their international student friends usually call or text back and forth about once a week to establish a relationship that allows them to check in with each other, provide updates, and offer advice
Meet with your Host periodically during the semester as time permits typically once per month.
Optionally, you can visit a church or participate in other family activities with your C-ville Host
The Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail offers a unique combination of history and outdoor recreation. The highlight of the trail is the walk through the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel, a long, dark passage that provides a memorable and distinctive hiking experience. The tunnel is 4,273 feet long (approximately 0.8 miles). The hike is generally rated easy and typically takes about 2 hours at a comfortable walking pace. The temperature inside the tunnel remains consistent year-round at 55–65°F (11–18°C), so participants should wear or bring a coat or jacket. The eastern portion of the trail is mostly level, while the western side includes some steeper sections. The tunnel is not lit, and a flashlight or headlamp is required.
Following the hike, the group will go to Hibachi Grill for a late lunch (approximately $19 per person).
Schedule
Meet at UVA Clock Tower: 9:30 AM
Return to UVA: approximately 3:30 PM
What to Bring
Bottled water
Snacks
Waterproof outer layer
Hiking boots or athletic shoes
Flashlight or headlamp
Participants are welcome to invite other international students or scholars; all attendees should register in advance.
Join us for a full-day hiking adventure to Bearfence Mountain and Blackrock Summit and experience the vibrant colors of fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This hike is designed for those who want to enjoy nature, explore scenic trails, and take in breathtaking mountain views.
Bearfence Mountain offers a more adventurous route with rock scrambles and multiple scenic overlooks. Hikers can enjoy a picnic lunch at the summit while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
Blackrock Summit provides a gentler hiking experience with a loop trail that passes massive boulders and open rock formations, offering sweeping 270-degree views of the landscape. This makes it perfect for those who want stunning views with a more relaxed pace. Registration Fee: $15
Meeting Details:
Location: UVA Aquatic Fitness Center
Time: 9:45 AM
Estimated Return: 6:30 PM
What to Bring:
Picnic lunch and drinks
Comfortable hiking or athletic shoes
1–2 liters of water per person
Warm, layered clothing (it can be cooler and windy at the summits)
Hat and camera
This hike is open to all international students and scholars. It is a great opportunity to meet new friends, enjoy the outdoors, and take in the beauty of fall.
News and information about upcoming ISI events – trips, sports nights, fall hiking, and more
Picnic games like corn hole, croquet, and badminton
Opportunities to join activities such as Bible discussions, Virginia tours, and traditional holiday meals
A delicious meal provided by local families, including vegetarian dishes.
Guest speaker: Economics Professor Kenneth Elzinga is one of UVA’s most famous faculty members. He has taught over 50,000 students, more than any other professor in UVA’s history! He will welcome new students, inspire us all, and share about how faith has been an important factor in his career.
HOW TO GET A RIDE FROM UVA TO THE PICNIC There are multiple PICK-UP LOCATIONS for the picnic—> Trinity Van 4:00 PM – 55 Hancock Dr iOS maps | Google maps 4:10 PM – U-Heights bus stop on Colonnade Dr. iOS maps | Google maps Crosslife Van 4:00 PM – The Flats at West Village iOS maps |Google maps 4:10 PM – Copeley bus stop on Seymour Rd iOS maps | Google maps Riverstone Bus 3:55 PM – Eagles Landing Clubhouse iOS maps | Google maps 4:05 PM – On the steps of the tall building at 1800 JPA iOS maps | Google maps 4:10 PM – IRC on Sprigg Ln. in front of Munford House iOS maps | Google maps
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.
Would you like to come and have fun with us? We need your support to make the arrival of new international students memorable and cozy. On August 19, 20, 21, and 25, we’ll train you, then we’ll walk around UVA grounds and distribute “Welcome Bags” (care packages lovingly handmade by a sewing club and filled with free stuff) to new international arrivals on UVA grounds.
Enjoy this 6.9-km out-and-back trail. St. Mary’s Wilderness is one of the most famous hikes for hot weather. This is a beautiful water hike that requires crossing cold mountain streams with NO bridge 🙂 The water is only 3 inches (76 mm) deep, but it will be refreshing. You’ll have to walk over slippery rocks and navigate over the stream. Are you up to the challenge?! You’ll need to wear water shoes or old athletic shoes that are okay to get wet.
On the way back from the hike, we will stop at a historic church in Staunton, Virginia, and eat a delicious dinner together! Meet at UVA Clock Tower at 9:00 AM Get back to UVA around 7:00 PM Register here If you have any trouble with registration, just email info@isivirginia.com and we will be happy to help. Registration cost: $20, which covers gas and dinner after the hike.
What to Bring: Water bottle, Lunch in a backpack to eat beside the Falls, Towel – leave it in the van/car in case you want to dry off before the return drive, water shoes or shoes that you don’t mind getting wet.
Would you like to be matched with a local family to enjoy a special meal with them during one of America’s favorite holidays?
Specific time and date to be arranged by you and the local family you are matched with.
Come have a delicious home-cooked meal, learn about the background and the meaning of the American Thanksgiving holiday, and enjoy your time with your host.
Do you feel the change of seasons in Charlottesville? That means it’s time to get outside and enjoy fall activities. October 26 will be the perfect weekend for apple picking, and because this is the the peak season, Carter Mountain is requiring $10 entrance tickets.
Step 1: Buy a ticket for October 26, 4:00PM—> Purchase Ticket Step 2: to help us plan and organize rides—> Register
Details: Meet at UVA’s Aquatic Fitness Center at 3:30 PM on Saturday. We will then drive to Carter Mountain Orchard where you can pick your own apples from big apple trees. Enjoy fresh mountain air and a beautiful view of Charlottesville and the surrounding area. You then purchase the apples you pick – give some away to friends too. We’ll watch the sunset overlooking the beautiful valleys of Charlottesville from high on the mountain. We’ll be back at UVA around 7:30PM.
(If you have a car, please let us know, and bring it to help with rides.)
We will go to Sharp Top Trail on Sunday, October 20. We’ll see the beautiful fall colors at THE PEAK!
You are invited to a fall-colors hike with a 360-degree view. The mountain is located at the beautiful area called Peaks of Otter. The vistas at the top are spectacular and as good as any in Virginia. This trail is moderate to strenuous, with 1.5 hours of hiking straight-up the mountain. Actual hiking time is 2.5-3.0 hours, covering 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with a 1,253 ft (382 meters) gain in elevation. This will be real hiking!
What to Bring: Bottled water, snacks, dinner in a bag (we will eat at the top of the mountain!) Hiking boots or athletic shoes, warm layered clothing (it tends to be windy and colder in the mountains). Feel free to invite other international students or scholar friends.
Last Updated: April 23, 2026 by admin Leave a Comment
Sports Night – Special Edition May 4
Join us this Monday, May 4 at 6:45 PM for a special edition of our weekly Sports Night!
This week, we’ll be playing volleyball as our featured game, so come ready to jump in and have fun—whether you’re competitive or just want to hang out.
Location: Snyder Tennis Court
Time: 6:45 PM
Bring your friends and enjoy a great evening of sports and community.
email info@isivirginia.com if you would like a ride
Posted: April 23, 2026 by admin Leave a Comment
Farmville Tour on April 25, 2026
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 Matters
This 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 Expect
We’ve planned a full and engaging itinerary:
8:45 AM – Meet at AFC
Scenic hike along the beautiful High Bridge Trail
Lunch at a local North Indian restaurant
Campus walk through Longwood University with insights into Virginia’s history
Guided visit to the Robert Russa Moton MuseumEach stop offers a chance to connect—with nature, with one another, and with the powerful stories that have shaped American history.Event Details
Time: 8:45 AM – 6:00 PM
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, and sunscreen
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.
Last Updated: October 27, 2024 by admin
ISI Sports Night
We’ll enjoy a fun, informal, practice game. Advanced and beginner players are welcome.
Join us for Volleyball, Pickleball and Soccer at the Snyder Tennis Courts every Monday at 6:30 PM.
Please call 434-760-1509 when you arrive.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
Last Updated: July 30, 2025 by admin
C-ville Host Program
The C-Ville Host Program matches you with a local American from the Charlottesville Community for friendship, mentoring, and cultural exchange.
A little about the C-Ville Host program:
International Students Inc (ISI) has been matching UVA international students with local Americans for the past 28 years through the C-Ville Host Program (also known as the Friendship Partner Program). C-Ville Hosts are knowledgeable, welcoming volunteers who enjoy meeting new friends from overseas.
Please confirm that you would like to participate in this Program by filling out the form linked below. Once confirmed we will be reaching out within the next month letting you know the family that you have been paired with for the C-Ville Host Program.
BENEFITS OF THE C-VILLE HOST PROGRAM
Participating in this program allows you to:
Last Updated: March 26, 2026 by admin Leave a Comment
Blue Ridge Tunnel Hike Feb 28, 2026
The Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail offers a unique combination of history and outdoor recreation. The highlight of the trail is the walk through the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel, a long, dark passage that provides a memorable and distinctive hiking experience.
The tunnel is 4,273 feet long (approximately 0.8 miles). The hike is generally rated easy and typically takes about 2 hours at a comfortable walking pace. The temperature inside the tunnel remains consistent year-round at 55–65°F (11–18°C), so participants should wear or bring a coat or jacket. The eastern portion of the trail is mostly level, while the western side includes some steeper sections. The tunnel is not lit, and a flashlight or headlamp is required.
Following the hike, the group will go to Hibachi Grill for a late lunch (approximately $19 per person).
Schedule
What to Bring
Participants are welcome to invite other international students or scholars; all attendees should register in advance.
Last Updated: February 20, 2026 by admin Leave a Comment
Fall Hike to Bearfence Mountain and Blackrock Summit – Saturday, October 18, 2025
Join us for a full-day hiking adventure to Bearfence Mountain and Blackrock Summit and experience the vibrant colors of fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This hike is designed for those who want to enjoy nature, explore scenic trails, and take in breathtaking mountain views.
Bearfence Mountain offers a more adventurous route with rock scrambles and multiple scenic overlooks. Hikers can enjoy a picnic lunch at the summit while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
Blackrock Summit provides a gentler hiking experience with a loop trail that passes massive boulders and open rock formations, offering sweeping 270-degree views of the landscape. This makes it perfect for those who want stunning views with a more relaxed pace.
Registration Fee: $15
Meeting Details:
What to Bring:
This hike is open to all international students and scholars. It is a great opportunity to meet new friends, enjoy the outdoors, and take in the beauty of fall.
Last Updated: February 20, 2026 by admin
International Student Picnic on August 31
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, August 30 at 4:30 PM
At a beautiful American home: 1844 Owensville Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22901
Enjoy:
There are multiple PICK-UP LOCATIONS for the picnic—>
Trinity Van
4:00 PM – 55 Hancock Dr iOS maps | Google maps
4:10 PM – U-Heights bus stop on Colonnade Dr. iOS maps | Google maps
Crosslife Van
4:00 PM – The Flats at West Village iOS maps |Google maps
4:10 PM – Copeley bus stop on Seymour Rd iOS maps | Google maps
Riverstone Bus
3:55 PM – Eagles Landing Clubhouse iOS maps | Google maps
4:05 PM – On the steps of the tall building at 1800 JPA iOS maps | Google maps
4:10 PM – IRC on Sprigg Ln. in front of Munford House iOS maps | Google maps
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.
Call Patrick: 434-760-1509 | Rajan: 434-962-7631
Website: isivirginia.com
Last Updated: February 20, 2026 by admin
Welcome Bags Distribution Aug. 19, 20, 21 and 25
Would you like to come and have fun with us? We need your support to make the arrival of new international students memorable and cozy. On August 19, 20, 21, and 25, we’ll train you, then we’ll walk around UVA grounds and distribute “Welcome Bags” (care packages lovingly handmade by a sewing club and filled with free stuff) to new international arrivals on UVA grounds.
Let us know when you can join by filling out this quick form:
https://forms.office.com/r/dp5…
Especially consider helping on Monday, August 25, when we will be able to welcome the largest number of new international students.
Last Updated: July 30, 2025 by admin Leave a Comment
Saint Mary’s Falls on Saturday, July 19th!
Enjoy this 6.9-km out-and-back trail.
St. Mary’s Wilderness is one of the most famous hikes for hot weather. This is a beautiful water hike that requires crossing cold mountain streams with NO bridge 🙂 The water is only 3 inches (76 mm) deep, but it will be refreshing. You’ll have to walk over slippery rocks and navigate over the stream. Are you up to the challenge?! You’ll need to wear water shoes or old athletic shoes that are okay to get wet.
On the way back from the hike, we will stop at a historic church in Staunton, Virginia, and eat a delicious dinner together!
Meet at UVA Clock Tower at 9:00 AM
Get back to UVA around 7:00 PM
Register here
If you have any trouble with registration, just email info@isivirginia.com and we will be happy to help.
Registration cost: $20, which covers gas and dinner after the hike.
What to Bring: Water bottle, Lunch in a backpack to eat beside the Falls, Towel – leave it in the van/car in case you want to dry off before the return drive, water shoes or shoes that you don’t mind getting wet.
Last Updated: July 16, 2025 by admin
Thanksgiving in an American Home 2024
Would you like to be matched with a local family to enjoy a special meal with them during one of America’s favorite holidays?
Specific time and date to be arranged by you and the local family you are matched with.
Come have a delicious home-cooked meal, learn about the background and the meaning of the American Thanksgiving holiday, and enjoy your time with your host.
Please register HERE.
Last Updated: October 27, 2024 by admin
APPLE PICKING AT CARTER MOUNTAIN, October 26!
Do you feel the change of seasons in Charlottesville? That means it’s time to get outside and enjoy fall activities. October 26 will be the perfect weekend for apple picking, and because this is the the peak season, Carter Mountain is requiring $10 entrance tickets.
Step 1: Buy a ticket for October 26, 4:00PM—> Purchase Ticket
Step 2: to help us plan and organize rides—> Register
Details:
Meet at UVA’s Aquatic Fitness Center at 3:30 PM on Saturday. We will then drive to Carter Mountain Orchard where you can pick your own apples from big apple trees. Enjoy fresh mountain air and a beautiful view of Charlottesville and the surrounding area. You then purchase the apples you pick – give some away to friends too.
We’ll watch the sunset overlooking the beautiful valleys of Charlottesville from high on the mountain.
We’ll be back at UVA around 7:30PM.
(If you have a car, please let us know, and bring it to help with rides.)
Last Updated: October 20, 2024 by admin
Peaks of Otter: Sharp Top Oct. 20, 2024
We will go to Sharp Top Trail on Sunday, October 20. We’ll see the beautiful fall colors at THE PEAK!
You are invited to a fall-colors hike with a 360-degree view. The mountain is located at the beautiful area called Peaks of Otter. The vistas at the top are spectacular and as good as any in Virginia. This trail is moderate to strenuous, with 1.5 hours of hiking straight-up the mountain. Actual hiking time is 2.5-3.0 hours, covering 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with a 1,253 ft (382 meters) gain in elevation. This will be real hiking!
Meet at UVA’s Aquatic Fitness Center at 12:00 PM
Get back to UVA around 9:00 PM
This hike is FREE!
What to Bring: Bottled water, snacks, dinner in a bag (we will eat at the top of the mountain!) Hiking boots or athletic shoes, warm layered clothing (it tends to be windy and colder in the mountains). Feel free to invite other international students or scholar friends.