New Hope International
Connect Group
Community life

Connect Group

A friendly extracurricular group for NHII students — because formation happens around the grill, on the court, and out on the trail too.

International students gathered at a picnic table by the Oregon coast
What we do

Fun, friendship, and a little adventure.

Connect isn't a class or a ministry assignment. It's a space to rest, play, and get to know people outside the classroom.

BBQs & shared meals

Casual cookouts and potlucks where friendships deepen over good food. We grill year-round when Oregon weather allows, and always make room for one more at the table.

Sports & games

Pickup basketball, volleyball, board games, and friendly competition. You don't have to be athletic — just willing to laugh and try.

Outings & adventures

Hikes, beach trips, local events, and seasonal excursions around Oregon. These outings are where culture, nature, and friendship come together.

Moments together

Scenes from Connect.

Lake days, holiday parties, and everything in between.

Connect students wading in the lake with a volleyball on a summer day
A Connect student tubing across an Oregon lake
Two Connect friends in life jackets at the lake
Connect friends laughing during a Christmas party
Why it matters

Friendship is part of the curriculum.

Studying abroad can feel isolating. Connect exists so every student has a circle of friends, mentors, and memories that make Eugene feel like home.

Belonging first

Connect is a no-pressure place to build real friendships across cultures and languages.

Formation in fun

Leadership, teamwork, and hospitality often show up best around a grill or on a trail.

Join the community.

Connect is open to every NHII student. Start your application and come see what we're about.

Start your application