Studying thousands of miles away from home, international students at Cotter Schools discover that the dormitory is not just a place to sleep but a community where they grow, share, and belong.

In Winona, Minnesota, Cotter Schools hosts 29 international students from Asia, Europe, and South America in 2025. These students come seeking independence, English fluency, and educational opportunities not always available in their home countries. Dorm life provides more than shelter: it offers cultural exchange, daily routines, responsibilities, and friendships that shape their personal and academic journeys. Staff members like Tammy, a Cotter alumna

who supports international students, help ease the challenges of being far from home by guiding them through homesickness, studies, and daily dorm concerns.

For Ela, from Vietnam, the adjustment was not easy. “At first, it was hard to live so far away from my family, but over time the dormitory became a special place where I found comfort and belonging,” – Ellan.

Ana Laura, from Brazil, highlighted the structure and organization that define daily life. “I really like how everything is organized and well-structured. Of course, there are always some downsides, but overall the experience is very good,” – Ana Laura.

Natalia, from Spain, emphasized that responsibility is one of the biggest lessons she has learned. “You need to commit. Cleaning tasks and responsibilities are part of it, but in the end, it’s worth it,” she explained.

Tammy, who works directly with international students, knows the struggles and the rewards of dorm life. “Sometimes what they need most is someone to talk to, someone who understands what it’s like to be far from home,” Tammy said. A Cotter graduate herself, she later attended college and paused her career to raise her children before returning to support students in the international dorm.

For international students, the dorm is not just a place to live, but a place to grow.