Julia Gardner
This Thursday marks the start of a very exciting week at Wes- International Education Week! (Even though International Education week officially begins on Monday, November 13, we’re too excited to wait!) Schools around the U.S. participate in this national initiative every year to promote intercultural learning, exchange, and celebration, and here at Wesleyan we’re excited to offer a variety of exciting and informative events over the course of the week.
At Wesleyan, the International Education Week program has four main goals. Firstly, to increase awareness of and promote global learning opportunities within and outside of Wesleyan; secondly, to preserve and celebrate our interconnected cultural and linguistic heritages and shared environment; thirdly, to foster togetherness via intercultural dialogue; and finally, to encourage interdisciplinary discourse about global pressures that threaten our shared heritage, including English dominance, forced migration, and climate change.
IEW’s wide range of events provides something for everyone: opportunities to learn about new topics through a global lens, appreciate dance, music, and food from around the world, practice your language skills, and much more!
For language learners, IEW includes opportunities to get your competition on at the French, Italian, or ASL game nights; learn the art of Chinese calligraphy; craft, collage, and eat cookies at Bastel with the German department; appreciate some poetry or share your own at the Spanish poetry jam; or drop in to see a film in Spanish or Greek.
Other events highlight arts from around the world– including a talent show hosted by Wesleyan’s very own international community!, – explore critical issues in a global context through panels and discussions, and provide more information about Wesleyan’s own opportunities for global engagement, including majors, fellowships, and study abroad.
If you’re interested in the Student Leadership Dinner Social hosted by the Office of International Student Affairs (OISA), make sure to sign up here for by Wednesday, November 15th at 5pm. At the Social, all members of the Wesleyan community can learn more about leadership opportunities offered by the Office of International Student Affairs (and enjoy some free pizza and beverages.) It will take place on Thursday, November 16th at 5:30pm.
If you’re interested in performing in the International Talent Show, send an email to oisa@wesleyan.edu by Friday, 11/10. This event is organized by international students for international students (including immigrants), and all members of the campus community are welcome to attend. All kinds of performances are welcome, and the OISA are happy to supply you with necessary tech such as projectors, microphones, and speakers– just let them know in your email!
For a full list of events, dates, and times, check out the Fries Center’s IEW page. We can’t wait to see you there!
