The University of St. Thomas

CultureLink Program

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 Go Global with CultureLink!

University of St. Thomas hosts students from over 69 countries. Each of these students comes to St. Thomas to succeed academically while learning about American culture and life in Minnesota. At the same time, international students have unique experiences and knowledge that they want to share with St. Thomas community.

The CultureLink program was created to address the needs and support both international and American students. The mission of the CultureLink is to build a strong connection between St. Thomas community and international students through cultural exchange. The program helps international students adjust to a new environment and provides a valuable international experience for American participants. 

Participants may chose from the CultureLink Partners and CultureLink Friendship Family program options.


The CultureLink Partners program connects international students with UST students, faculty and staff members for developing friendships, and learning about cultures and traditions.

Together, CultureLink partners experience life in the Twin Cities, learn about each other's countries, and get a valuable international experience!


The CultureLink Friendship Family program matches  new international students with  American families from local communities. Founded on the conviction that we should learn from each other, the  program provides cultural experience for community members and helps international students experience true Minnesota culture in American families.

Our goal is to make St. Thomas community home away from home for international students!

CultureLink Home


- Announcements

- Expectations and Policies

- Application for American participants

- Application for international students

"The CultureLink program is amazing. You've found a way to directly support the convictions of the UST community - personal attention, diversity, learning, civility and respect. Personally, I've benefited by meeting three wonderful students from different parts of the world (France, Peru and Poland). They've each helped me learn more about their home country and about their experience as international students here at UST. I'd like to believe that they, too, benefit from knowing that there are people here interested in their experience and in their success. I would recommend the CL program for all people - especially those who have the time to invest in building great relationships with great people." 

               - Victoria Svoboda
Associate Dean of Students