Hosts Call for Participants in Upcoming International Education Week

University of Arkansas

IEW 2018: Students interact through numerous activities during IEW to explore and appreciate the diversity of international and cultural exchange.

International Education Week, celebrated at the University of Arkansas from Nov. 16-20, is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education as an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange.

Coordinated events for the week-long initiative are sponsored by the office of International Students and Scholars in collaboration with registered student organizations, academic units, and other campus organizations.

"This is your opportunity to learn about the world through 120 countries represented on campus, as well as, seek study abroad and travel opportunities," said Cynthia Smith, assistant director for outreach with the UA office of International Students and Scholars. "During IEW, students can connect with new resources and find opportunities to engage," she said.

Smith expects most events for IEW will likely be virtual, but hosts are encouraged to think creatively, celebrating the benefits of international exchange in new ways. "We chose a theme of 'Reconnect" this year," Smith said. "We know during the pandemic some people feel isolated. We hope IEW will provide ways for our community to connect," she said.

Students, staff and faculty are invited to participate in IEW by creating an event to highlight international culture. Organizations that wish to host activities during the week can register by submitting an event to IEW calendar. If you want to participate, but don't know what to do, check out some suggested event ideas:

• Invite a virtual guest speaker to talk about world events or cultural themes relevant to your group or organization. 
• Arrange a presentation about your college's study abroad programs. Encourage students to apply for a passport and share information about study abroad scholarships. Contact the Study Abroad Office for more information.
• Request a member of the International Culture Team to make a cultural presentation for your class or group
• Host an International Career Day by inviting alumni and /or local international experts as speakers.
• Organize a virtual program or presentation with an "international" theme.|
• Plan an event to showcase the importance of foreign language study
• Plan a panel discussion about the internationalization of business and global food systems
• The global classroom: Invite guest speakers to teach an online session with a discussion on Internet exchange and distance learning
• Recruit alumni with overseas experience (Fulbright students, teachers, former diplomats, Peace Corps volunteers, business leaders or journalists) to discuss their international careers and the importance of international education and exchange. This can be as formal as a panel presentation or speech or as informal as a coffee hour or brown bag lunch.
• Produce and/or screen a video about the experiences of international students in your department and/or students back from a semester or year abroad.
• Host performances, art exhibits, or interactive elements utilizing student or faculty talent of your department to highlight international elements.

International Education Week is coordinated by the offices of International Students and Scholars, Study Abroad and International Exchange, Sponsored Student and Special Programs, and International Admissions.