International Education Week – An International Celebration in and out of the Classroom

By Sarah Gardenghi, MA

Imagine a day at school with international students in traditional dress, waving flags from countries around the world. Now imagine a week dedicated to international culture, language, dance, stories, clothing and food.

During the third week in November each year, you do not need to imagine such events; rather you can help celebrate them during International Education Week (IEW). In 2000, the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the U.S. Department of Education created IEW as a way for exchange students to share information about their home countries in a fun and interesting format. The IEW main website, http://iew.state.gov states, “ The worldwide celebration of IEW offers a unique opportunity to reach out to people in every nation, to develop a broader understanding of world cultures and languages, and to reiterate the conviction that enduring friendships and partnerships created through international education and exchange are important for a secure future for all countries.”

During IEW, schools, businesses, non-government agencies, community organizations, embassies and associations hold events to celebrate international education. For many international students or employees, this week provides the opportunity to teach others about their culture, language, food and homeland. It also connects students with their host community, taking them beyond their “student status” and sharing their cultural identity. Many students participate in events that give a voice and visual to who they are and how these cultural elements make them unique and wonderful.

There are several things you can do if your school or organization is interested in hosting or attending events in your area. Start by visiting the IEW main website http://iew.state.gov , which lists links on how to get involved, promotional materials, and events. This website also has videos and photos of what other schools have done to promote IEW, and allows you to join the subscriber list to receive regular updates.

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County hosts events for the community and campus each day during IEW. An opening reception with International Service Departments and the President’s Office demonstrates interest and appreciation for the international students. Events such as a speaker series delivered by former Peace Corp volunteers, a study abroad fair and a “Thanks Around the World” banquet, highlight the diversity of groups and individuals on campus.

So put on your creative intercultural caps and get involved! Here are some fun things your group can do to get started:

• Videotape your international students as they participate in class activities, parties, field trips and community events.
• Ask international or newly immigrated students (or parents of younger students) to give speeches/presentations in classes, in a school assembly or at a scheduled school event.
• Involve the local community. Advertise events with the newspaper and with the Chamber of Commerce. Post event flyers at restaurants, international grocery markets and with international employers in your area.
• Host an international dance or bazaar. People can make traditional foods. Music and cultural videos illustrate the variety of your organization’s international students.
• Prepare a fashion show or traditional dance program. Students love to show their clothing and many enjoy teaching dances they do back home.
• Involve all ages. Mix up activities with elementary, middle and high school and college students. Take students off campus or bring international groups to schools. The more interactive, the better!

Once your school or organization becomes involved in IEW, you can post your videos, pictures, projects and stories at http://iew.state.gov Your students’ involvement will be shared globally in the pursuit of spreading knowledge through culture and language. This year, International Education Week is November 16 – 20, 2009. If you are preparing for next year, IEW is scheduled for November 15-19, 2010.

Sarah Gardenghi, M.A., is Assistant Director for Student Services at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where she advises international students attending the English Language Center about personal, academic and immigration issues, and assists students as they transition into the university undergraduate and graduate programs. Ms. Gardenghi frequently provides training in intercultural communication, public speaking and career development for campus departments and community organizations.

© Language Lizard, LLC. 2009.

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