The City of Troy hosted the new Troy University international students for a “get to know your community” event Thursday afternoon. The students enjoyed music and refreshments at The Studio, a visit to the Johnson Center for the Arts and a stroll around the downtown square.

The City of Troy hosted more than 100 Troy University international students Thursday afternoon and welcomed them in grand style to their home away from home.

Shelia Jackson, Troy director of tourism and public relations, said each year the City invites the university’s new international students to downtown Troy for an afternoon of fun, fellowship and community awareness.

“We want the international students to know about downtown Troy and all that it has to offer,” Jackson said. “We are proud to have them in Troy and we want them to know.”

Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. told the students that, when he came to Troy in 1989, there were only 40 international students on campus. Today, 70 flags fly in the university’s dining all. Troy University has become a global village, the Chancellor said.

“Your future is different because you have opportunities to associate with different cultures, with people unlike yourselves,” Hawkins told the gathering of international students. “You will learn to better understand and appreciate people who are different from you. The experiences that you have at Troy University will change your lives.”

Hawkins encouraged the students to get to know their professors and their fellow students.

“Extend yourself,” he said. “There are many opportunities outside the classroom and there are many ways to be involved. Troy University has great athletic programs and programs that perform on the highest level.”

The Chancellor challenged the international students to achieve academic success, to be good citizens and to have fun, “And, in that order,” he said, laughing.

“Twenty years from now, I want you to look back on your time at Troy University as a best time in your life. While you are here, be fully engaged. Get out of your comfort zone and take full benefit of the experiences you have. We are glad to have you here. All of you are now Trojans.”

The Chancellor’s remarks were applauded and the newest international Trojans high-fived each other.

Troy Mayor Jason A. Reeves said the City is always excited to welcome the new international students.

“The international students have an economic impact on the city,” he said. “Many of them come here to set up housekeeping because you can only bring so much on a plane. And, they are contributing members of our community throughout the time they are here.”

Reeves said, however, the economic impact of the international students is secondary to their cultural impact.

“We live in a global economy but here in rural South Alabama, we don’t have many opportunities to interact with those from other countries, except through Troy University’s international program,” he said. “These students bring the world to Troy. Their presence is an educational experience for all of us. We welcome them to Troy and look forward to their being a part of our community.”