Open arms, open tables.

Winter break can be a quiet time on campus. For international students who stay in Providence over the holidays, the Global Holiday Table offers something simple and warm: a seat at a Brown family's table.

The program began in winter 2024, when more than 50 students, faculty, and staff shared holiday meals in its first year. Now in its third year, it matches international students with Brown faculty, staff, and alumni hosts for a holiday meal and cultural exchange.

A sense of togetherness

For Myla, a master's student in electrical and computer engineering, the evening was a reminder of "the joy of belonging and togetherness, even far from home." "They were so warm, welcoming and kind, and honestly, it was one of the best meals I've had since coming here."

Tuba Tasneem, a Fulbright foreign language teaching assistant from India, spent a late December evening at the home of Assistant Dean Rockford and his partner Germán. She tried Mexican food for the first time, loved the enchiladas, and talked with her hosts about everything from languages to passports and airports. For Rockford, one of the nicest moments was seeing Tuba and Nasrin realize it was the first time in a long while they had sat family style around a table for dinner, enjoying conversation and a mindful meal, instead of eating in front of a screen or on the go.

Sima Raha, a senior from Afghanistan studying economics, joined Vice President for Alumni Relations Zack Langway and his family for a holiday lunch. "Last year during winter break, I felt lonely and homesick, so it was special to see his kids, and I loved the food," she said.

Kira Ivanova, an undergraduate from Ukraine, met Mary Jordan, director of new student programs and community initiatives in residential life, for lunch in January. "It has been a highlight of my winter break," she said.

"For many, the Global Holiday Table serves as more than just a meal, it's an opportunity to create lasting memories, build meaningful relationships and feel truly supported during a quieter time of year," said Ruby Cheng, Interim Director of the Global Brown Center. "These transformative experiences helped turn a potentially lonely season into one filled with warmth, connection and a renewed sense of belonging."

Read more in Brown News: "Open arms, open tables" (January 16, 2025).

Join the table

Are you an international student staying on campus this winter break? Or a Brown faculty, staff, or alumni member who would like to host? Sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfU49LKcO67zUm-uFH9ypKJJLdhWBB9Ct193ie4eWk_YUe8sg/viewform

This program is open to students who are 18 years of age or older. Each gathering is a small group, and hosts do not serve alcohol.

Special thanks to the Brown Club of Rhode Island for collaborating with us on this year's Global Holiday Table.

Questions: contact Ruby Cheng at ruby_cheng@brown.edu.