International Education Week Promotes Global Belonging to U of A Community

The University of Arkansas will celebrate International Education Week Nov. 15-19, with coordinated in-person and virtual events for the week-long initiative coordinated by the Graduate School and International Education.

International Education Week (IEW) 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.

“We are anticipating a very active week and are excited to return to many in-person events this year to celebrate the rich and diverse contributions our international students and scholars bring to campus as well as the students, staff and faculty who have studied and worked abroad,” said Michael Freeman, director of the International Students and Scholars. “Our entire international education community will highlight their life-changing experiences with others on campus during the week.  We are grateful for the participation of student organizations, academic units and U of A administration.”

IEW is an opportunity to learn about the world through more than 100 countries represented on campus, as well as seek study abroad and travel opportunities, said Freeman. The theme for 2021 is “Together is Better,” a reminder that international education promotes global belonging in the UA community.

Events throughout the week provide opportunities for members of the campus community to learn about the dress, food and cultures of numerous international regions whose students attend the university.

 "Our international students and scholars contribute greatly to the quality of learning in the classroom and laboratory, thus the overall quality of education at the university," said Curt Rom, associate dean for international education at the university. In our efforts to prepare students for a global workforce, we are fortunate to have such an active, vibrant and engaged group of international students at the U of A.”

International presentations are available during IEW from the International Culture Team. The International Culture Team is a presentation team made up of international students and scholars, as well as, American students who have studied abroad or just want to be a part of the team.

Each day of IEW centers on activities and presentations with a theme related to international culture. 

The week includes opening ceremonies, an international bazaar, numerous presentations and lectures, cultural pop-ups, food presentations and more. A complete list of IEW events is updated daily with details about how to participate.