As the academic year goes on, the seasons change with it. The weather is starting to get colder and windier. Most students are fortunate enough to be able to keep themselves warm with winter coats, gloves, hats, and other winter protective gear. However there are some who struggle with being able to do that. 

The Office of International Engagement (OIE), which is located in Maucker Union Room 113, is hosting a winter drive for international students who do not have the proper winter gear to keep themselves warm throughout the vicious winter. 

For the winter drive, it is highly encouraged that students donate winter coats that are in good shape. “We mainly ask for winter coats in sizes small, medium and large. We also appreciate warm scarves, hats, gloves and winter boots or shoes in good condition,” Carolina Coronado said. 

This winter drive is crucial, because most international students who move to Iowa do not have the proper winter protection at all. 

Most of these international students who are coming to Iowa to study abroad are struggling with the tuition fee as it is. Some international students are not used to the colder climate due to living in warmer climates. “Some international students may struggle with high tuition fees when studying abroad. Still, there’s also the additional cost of purchasing expensive winter wear when studying in chilly climates, especially for those from warmer weather countries,” Coronado said. 

This winter drive is significant – not only is it going to help the current international students at UNI, but it will also help the incoming students to the campus. 

“We want to find a way to make the adjustment to the Iowan climate a little easier for international students,” Coronado said. 

Knowing that we already have had the first snow in November, we as a community must act fast to help those in need. Just imagine the more brutal snow that is yet to come. 

The winter drive runs throughout all of November until the first two weeks of December. However, if anyone still wishes to donate after the inital drive period, they are able to do so until January. 

Anybody is more than welcome to donate to the winter drive for the international students. “Under this initiative, UNI faculty, students, staff and in some instances, the public, can donate clean winter wear that’s in good condition for international students,” Coronado said. 

When donating any winter gear, especially any winter coats, it is heavily emphasized that they are clean and in good condition for the students to use. Even for the ones that would be arriving during the winter time with no snow gear at all. 

Helping the students at UNI is a great way of showing how big and supportive the panther community is. For more questions, do not hesitate to reach out to the Director of International Engagement Carolina Coronado-Park. Her email is [email protected]