International House Philadelphia: Building Global Community Locally

In this episode of EdUp International, host James Shafer heads to the City of Brotherly Love — Philadelphia — to explore how one organization is helping international students not just study in the U.S., but belong here.James is joined by Marissa Amos, Community Engagement Manager at International House Philadelphia (IHP), a long-standing hub for cultural exchange and global connection. This conversation dives into how IHP supports international students, scholars, and employers in building an inclusive and globally connected region.Community & Belonging: How IHP’s programs — from shared cultural celebrations to student gatherings and mentorship — create a home away from home for international residents.Career Pathways & Global Talent: IHP’s partnerships with employers, universities, and organizations like Campus Philly and the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce that help employers understand CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT — and open new doors for international graduates.Regional Advocacy: How IHP collaborates across the Greater Philadelphia region to strengthen its global talent ecosystem, especially in the life sciences and medical sectors.A Personal Story: Marissa shares how hiking pushed her to confront fear and discover resilience — a perfect metaphor for the international experience itself.Community building starts with listening, shared experiences, and genuine cultural exchange.Educating employers about how to engage talent through the Curricular Practical Training and Optional Practical Training programs is key to unlocking regional economic potential.Philadelphia’s “eds and meds” sector provides fertile ground for global talent retention.Every city can learn from IHP’s model of collaboration between higher education, business, and community organizations.🌐 Website: www.ihphilly.orgListen and subscribe to EdUp International wherever you get your podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, or Google Podcasts.#EdUpInternational #InternationalEducation #GlobalTalent #StudyInTheUSA #OPT #STEM #CareerDevelopment #Philadelphia #HigherEducation #CommunityBuilding #TouroUniversity