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Why I-House?

Our global community comprises 700 resident members from nearly 100 countries including the United States, who attend any graduate program, participate in an internship or training program, or are a visiting scholar in the New York City area. 

In a recent survey of Alumni:

83% agreed that International House challenges Residents to become leaders in their chosen field of study, as members of a diverse and inclusive lifelong community.

83% agreed International House fosters international understanding by empowering the next generation of globally-minded leaders.

87% thought their I-House Experience contributed to their success in their chosen field.

Here are the top 5 reasons to live at I-House this year.

A Vibrant Community with a Rich History

Living in a diverse environment like International House instills a lifelong commitment to pursuing common ground through collective action and advocacy. International House’s mission is to curate a collaborative, open-minded cohort dedicated to creating a more peaceful global future.

All I-House residents are encouraged to interact with and participate in the community as much as possible. International House’s community members, amenities, and rooms are intentionally chosen and crafted to encourage residents to break out of their comfort zones and make the most of the welcoming community they are a part of. 

Listen to what our residents have to say about life at I-House.

The Intercollegiate Cosmopolitan Club, International House’s precursor created in 1912, began with Sunday suppers at Harry and Florence Edmond’s residence. To continue this tradition, all residents are required to participate in our dining program. Aside from our numerous weekly programs, sharing a meal at the Dining Hall is among the most effective ways House Residents meet, interact with, and learn from their fellow community members. 

Events & Programming

I-House offers a variety of exclusive events designed to provoke meaningful dialogue about critical topics and promote international understanding across our global I-House community.

The Programs team is busy planning a full array of programs exclusively for current residents that are designed to bring the community together. Residents can expect many of the traditional events that I-House is known for, such as film screenings and Night of Nations, as well as some new and innovative programs to make the most of the I-House experience. Additionally, a number of leadership and financial aid programs are available for eligible Residents who serve as ambassadors of our mission or support the community in other ways. In addition to Fellowships, I-House offers various opportunities for Residents to receive professional development and even funding for their own project proposals.

Amenities

Designed by architect Louis E. Jallade and built in 1924, International House is listed on the Register of Historic Places in NYC and the US. Located steps from Riverside Park, Sakura Park, and public transportation to all of New York City, this historic building offers both private and shared spaces for our residents. 

Available amenities include a 24/7-staffed front desk and public safety office, free Wi-Fi, a staffed mail-room, bicycle storage room, laundry facilities, music practice rooms, several lounge areas, the Frohlich Gymnasium and the Frohlich Fitness Center, multiple quiet study rooms, the Dining Hall, I-House Pub, Game Room, computer lab, conference room, and Floor Lounges on each floor in I-House South. 

Health, Wellness & Safety

International House is committed to the health and wellbeing of all of our Residents and staff. 

We are proud to offer a suite of Health & Wellness services to all residents. Led by the Global Health & Wellness Program Director and onsite Social Worker, Lorraine Pirro, our Resident Support Services team is available to assist residents with any topics or concerns they may experience. Topics addressed include mental health, fitness and nutrition, and issues specific to navigating in environments that are academically rigorous, intercultural, and globally diverse.

COVID-19 Protocols at International House

All Residents, staff and guests are encouraged to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, but, as of June 2023, proof of vaccination is not required for admission. All communal spaces are cleaned multiple times throughout the day with high traffic areas getting the most attention. 

Global Alumni Network

With more than 65K Alumni in 145 countries, the I-House experience doesn’t end with residency; being an I-House alumni opens former residents up to a word of networking possibilities. I-House residents gain access to exclusive networking and mentorship opportunities through special events held annually worldwide, and the World Council of Alumni engages in recruitment, networking, and fundraising activities to promote the House’s mission and serve as points of contact for other Alumni in their respective countries.

Notable Alumni include Chinua Achebe, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Leontyne Price, Irene Sankhoff and David Hein, James Gorman, Ariane Daguin, Leonard Cohen, and many more.

From the archives: I-House in 1949