Life at I-House

There's always something happening at I-House

Every semester the I-House Student Council organize many events and activities for residents to participate in. Get to know your fellow residents from around the world while experiencing all that the city of San Jose and the Bay Area have to offer.

Coffee Nights

Meet new friends, try new things

Enjoy food from around the world, learn new arts and crafts, or just relax and hang out with the other residents at one of the regular social events planned by the I-House Student Council.

A crowd of students sit around tables with bowls, rice, plastic wrap, and gloved hands ready to make rice balls

Onigiri Night

Students may have come for the free snacks, but they found connection, creativity, and culture.

A student carefully applies henna paste to another a flower stencil on another student's hand

Henna Night

A night where every design told a story. Lots of students joined us, shared smiles, and made this evening one to remember.

Students gathered around a table with cards and poker chips, watching as one player counts their chips for a play

Game Nights

Take a chance to meet new friends whether you're relaxing around a table and listening to music or getting dressed up for a special casino-themed evening, 

Cultural Programs

Students engaging socially with each other, gathered at tables or standing in small groups

During a semester at I-House you will learn about the practices and traditions of cultures from around the world. Every few weeks there is a cultural program that you can join to learn more about the people around you.

Table Talks

Each semester the I-House hosts discussions about current events around the world.

Lunar New Year

Welcome the Lunar New Year with fellow residents at an I-House celebration.

Global Fair

See performances from residents and different cultural organizations around campus and try cuisines from around the world. The event is organized by Resident Advisors but I-House residents are encouraged to help out.

Rotary-sponsored Events

Six smiling students of a range of ethnicities pose for a candid shot in front of two brightly colored homes

Learn from and about the community

Rotary International hosts multiple events throughout the semester at I-House that offer opportunities to learn from community speakers, network with local professionals, and develop communication and leadership skills. Rotary also helps sponsor outings for residents to events and places in and around the Bay Area.

Students pose with a Rotary club visitor in front of a sculpture constructed from tape, multi-colored paper, and other office supplies

Leadership Games

Residents put their teamwork, problem solving, and critical thinking skills to the test to solve various challenges and roleplaying scenarios. It's also an excellent opportunity to work on communication skills and strategic decision making.

I-House students gather with a number of older adults; community mentors speaking about their experiences

Mentor Nights

Meet with currently working and retired professionals; network with engineers, judges, CEOs, organization presidents, and more.

Lunch and Learn

Residents can go to the Rotary Club for a free meal and an opportunity to hear from and network with prominent community members.

Student Council

A cohort of ethnically diverse students in casual clothing standing together for a group photo

The Heart of I-House

Student Council is the heart of I-House. Residents vote for officers like the President, CFO, Social Media Coordinator, Keeper of Traditions, Event Advisor, and Programmer. They run committees that plan some of the fun stuff happening around the house. Each semester they are given a budget and work together to use that budget to enhance the experiences of all the residents.

Anyone Can Join

Anyone can run to help out their fellow residents and learn important leadership skills. It's an easy, low-pressure way to get involved and meet new people.

Keep Traditions Going

Some things at the I-House have a legacy going back decades. The Student Council puts on the Formal Dinner event every semester and maintains the roommate photo board that captures each year's memories.

Make the I-House Fun

Besides advocating for student needs, the Student Council is responsible for bringing a lot of fun amenities to the house, like sports gear, gaming consoles, and a 65-inch TV for one of the first-floor hangout rooms.