Trade Winds is an intercultural friendship
program in which international students and U.S. students are placed in small groups based on common interests and hobbies to participate in activities throughout the semester. The program provides unique opportunities for
its participants to interact and educate each other about their cultures,
countries, perspectives, and their life experiences. Additionally, it gives
students the opportunity for involvement and leadership in a meaningful
extracurricular activity.
Trade Winds Recruitment
Recruitment for the spring 2018 cohort of Trade Winds has ended. Follow the selected students' journey of intercultural friendship and learning on the OIS Facebook page and stay tuned for fall 2018 recruitment to begin in August!
Program Details
What is the Trade Winds commitment?
- Semester-long program
- 5-6 evening and weekend group events organized by OIS
- Additional informal gatherings organized by your small group
- Agreement to engage with respect, open, and curious attitude and a shared goal of increased intercultural competence
What kinds of events has OIS organized in the past for Trade Winds?
- Intercultural Communication Workshop
- Kick-off event & Closing Banquet
- Mid-semester retreat on-campus
- Service events at local non-profits
- Group outings to museums like the Field Museum, Art Institute, Chicago History Museum, Chicago Sports Museum, and more!
- Sports outings to Chicago White Sox and Chicago Fire games
What kinds of informal gatherings can I plan for my small Trade Winds group?
- Study together
- Cook a meal together
- Explore Chicago by visiting a new museum, neighborhood, or restaurant
- Invite your group to share in a cultural tradition like holidays or festivals
What will I gain by participating in Trade Winds?
- Increased intercultural competence through a better understanding of other languages, cultures, and customs
- Lasting connections with people from around the world
- An opportunity to promote internationalization on the UIC campus
- Free admission to some of Chicago’s best museums and events!