How to Become an International Friend for Rice University Graduate Students

Join Dr. Porshe Chiles McKay and Tiying Huang to learn how you can become a member of the International Friends Program at Rice University, where you are paired with international graduate level Rice students to welcome them to Houston and the diversity of our city.  

Dr. Porshe Chiles-McKay is a passionate educator, researcher, and leader with a Ph.D. in Agricultural Education and Communication, specializing in leadership and organizational development from the University of Florida. With over 14 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Chiles-McKay has worked across various fields, including international education, local government, and institutes of higher education. She now serves as the inaugural International Community Engagement and Events Specialist at Rice University. She is responsible for curating and managing events, programs, and branding for the Office of International Students and Scholars. She hails from Dallas and lives in Houston with her husband who is studying to be a doctor of chiropractic. 

Tiying Huang is the International Services Specialist with the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) at Rice University.  Originally from China, they've called Houston home since 2013 and join the OISS team in 2023.  Outside of work, they enjoy traveling with their family and exploring new experiences.  Her husband is a Rice alumnus, and they are indoctrinating their two kids to be the next generation of Owls!