Kindred Nations Exchange
NBU's cultural exchange program: students from every country and every university learning with and from each other.
Nations are built by people who understand each other
Kindred Nations Exchange connects students across cultures, languages and borders, so they learn how people in other places live, work and solve problems. It starts online so that anyone can take part, whatever their budget or visa situation. NBU students take part, and so can students from other universities.
It is linked to The Bridge, NBU's magazine, where participants may share their stories.
Who can take part
- NBU students (when instruction begins)
- Students of any other university, anywhere
- Alumni and faculty of partner universities
- Universities that want to become exchange partners
Guests from other universities take part with their own institution's approval where required.
Six ways to exchange
Kindred Circles
Small moderated video conversations where students from different countries share how they live, study and work.
Language Tandems
Two students teach each other their languages, such as English for French or Arabic for Spanish.
Global Classroom
Students from NBU and partner universities work in mixed teams on a shared case, guided by faculty.
Builders Challenge
Cross-country student teams help a real small business solve a problem, with Business Development Center mentors.
Diaspora Voices
Leaders and professionals from many countries speak about their journeys and their home regions.
Washington, DC Gathering
Possible short gatherings around global events for participants who arrange their own travel and hold the correct visa. Not available at first and not guaranteed.
Built to follow the rules
- Exchange and immigration law. U.S. educational and cultural exchange is regulated (for example the Exchange Visitor Program rules at 22 CFR Part 62 and immigration law). NBU is not a designated sponsor, so it does not invite foreign participants to the U.S. for an exchange or issue the documents needed. Any in-person visit uses each person's own valid visa, or a designated partner sponsor.
- No work. Exchange activities are not employment and cannot be used to work in the U.S.
- Equal treatment. Participation is open without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or other protected status (see the Non-Discrimination Statement).
- Privacy and safety. Student information is protected, sessions are moderated, and recordings need everyone's consent.
- Sanctions and export rules. NBU screens partners and follows U.S. sanctions rules.
NBU will seek legal advice before launch and will publish its code of conduct, safeguarding and privacy policies before the first session.
Skills for a connected world
- Cross-cultural communication and teamwork
- Language practice in real conversation
- A global network of peers and mentors
- International project experience for your résumé
- A story to share in The Bridge magazine
Participation may be recognized with a non-credit participation record. It is not a degree or academic credit.
Register your interest
Students, faculty and universities can register now. We will write to you when the first sessions are announced.
Become an exchange partner
University leaders, international offices and student groups can write to us to shape joint activities. Partnerships are announced only once agreed in writing (see Partners).
Questions? We are glad to help.
Call (771) 241-9259 or write to info@nationbuilderuniversity.com. Tell us about your goals and we will point you to the right next step.