What International Students Should Know Before Starting at Meredith College
Headed to Meredith College as an international student? First off — congratulations! You’re joining a community that’s known for empowering women, fostering close-knit connections, and offering a strong liberal arts education in the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina.
Whether you’re the first in your family to study abroad or just navigating your first time in the U.S., here’s a helpful guide to make your transition to Meredith feel smoother, easier, and more exciting.
🏡 1. Raleigh Is Safe, Student-Friendly, and Full of Opportunity
Meredith’s campus is located in Raleigh, one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., and part of the Research Triangle — alongside Durham and Chapel Hill. While Meredith itself is a smaller campus, Raleigh gives you access to everything you need.
Here’s what to know about Raleigh:
It’s clean, calm, and easy to navigate. Many Meredith students rely on public transportation or ride-shares like Uber/Lyft.
There’s a mix of southern charm and modern energy. You’ll find cozy cafés, farmers markets, museums, and internship opportunities nearby.
The weather is mild. Summers can be humid, but fall and spring are beautiful. Winters are short and rarely snowy.
Bonus: You’re just a few minutes away from NC State, so even though Meredith is smaller, you still get a big-college town experience.
👩🎓 2. Meredith Traditions Make You Feel at Home
One of the best things about Meredith is its strong sense of community and empowering traditions. It won’t take long before you feel like you’re part of something meaningful.
Cornhuskin’ – The biggest Meredith tradition! It’s a friendly student competition with skits, dances, costumes, and class spirit. It’s so much fun.
Class Rings & Onyx Ceremony – Each class has its own color, and you’ll bond over shared experiences like ring ceremonies and Class Day.
Big Sis/Lil Sis Program – A mentorship tradition where upperclasswomen support and guide younger students.
And yes — you’ll start learning the chants and songs faster than you think!
🍴 3. Where to Eat On and Around Campus
Meredith has a small, community-focused dining scene, but you're also just minutes away from some amazing food spots in Raleigh.
On-campus options:
BeeHive Café – Great for snacks, coffee, and casual meals.
Belk Dining Hall – Buffet-style meals that rotate daily. It’s easy to find vegetarian and allergy-friendly options too.
Off-campus favorites nearby:
Cup A Joe – A local coffee shop with a cozy vibe and strong coffee (perfect for study sessions).
Neomonde Mediterranean – Super popular for fresh, healthy, Mediterranean food.
Bida Manda – For a taste of Laos and Southeast Asia — great for a dinner treat or special outing.
And if you ever miss food from home, check out Grand Asia Market and Super G Mart for international groceries.
💬 4. Navigating Life at a Private Women’s College
Studying at Meredith feels personal, empowering, and supportive — but it’s different from a large public university, so here’s what to keep in mind:
Small class sizes = more attention. You’ll know your professors by name, and they’ll actually care about your success.
Leadership is everywhere. Whether it’s clubs, campus jobs, or class councils — you’re encouraged to lead and grow.
The pace is manageable, but the academics are serious. Stay on top of deadlines, participate in class, and don’t be afraid to speak up.
Need support? The Office of International Programs, Academic & Career Planning, and Student Success Center are all there to help you.
🌍 5. Tips for International Students Starting at Meredith
Making a new home in a different country takes time — here’s how to make the most of your experience:
Attend orientation. You’ll get essential info on housing, health insurance, and U.S. systems — plus, you’ll meet other international students right away.
Use Raleigh’s GoTriangle buses to get around cheaply (and sometimes for free with a student ID).
Make friends across cultures. It’s great to bond with fellow internationals, but don’t forget to join Meredith clubs and activities — that’s where long-term friendships often start.
Use campus resources like counseling, writing help, and career coaching — they’re free, and you’ll never be judged for asking.
💖 Final Thoughts: You’re Going to Thrive at Meredith
Starting your journey at Meredith College as an international student means stepping into a space where women support women, your voice matters, and your ideas can grow. You’re not just a number here — you’re part of a legacy.
So take a deep breath, say yes to new experiences, and don’t forget to take photos under the arch your first week on campus (it’s a rite of passage!).
You’ve got this — and Meredith is lucky to have you. 💫
