Bobcat Cultural Connections
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 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 in 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 currently enrolled MSU students who have been at MSU for at least one semester, regardless if you have or are planning on studying abroad. If you have studied 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 program for you!
If you have any questions about the group or how to get involved, email studyabroad@montana.edu.
For more information about the Bobcat Cultural Connections Program, check out these links!
Incoming Exchange Student BCC FAQs
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 learning more, check out BCC Certificate FAQs or email studyabroad@montana.edu.
Interested?
Spring 2026 matches have been made, but keep an eye out for Fall 2026!
MSU Student Testimony
"I thought it was cool that we have a program to meet with people visiting from other countries. I wish I was able to do something like this when I was studying abroad." -Eli, Fall 2025
"This was a cool experience. I'm glad my buddy was also in architecture and we got to bond over that." -Beth, Fall 2025
"I loved the program and having the opportunity to meet other people from around the world. I am sad that I did not get matched with a buddy next semester, but I am grateful for all the memories and friendships that I had created by being apart of the program." -Mattison, Fall 2025
"[The pre-program course's] question of what makes up american culture - that forced me to leave the ideology of america has no culture - we do!!!" -Rosalyn, Fall 2025