UNA International RSOs offer diverse cultural experiences, free food

Schedule of Events

International Education Week involves events beginning Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. with painting Mount Fuji and ending with culture in the classroom Nov. 22.

The international education websites describes international education as a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Education, said coordinator of International Services Joy Mallard. It provides an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.

The week of events will be hosted throughout different locations on campus that include the GUC, planetarium, amphitheater and Baptist Campus Ministries.

International education is a two-fold situation, Mallard said. It highlights all of the examples of programming and global education UNA does with all of the study abroad information as well as the diversity UNA has on campus with its own international student population.

“I hope people will see all of the different activities we have going on campus in different organizations that are highlighted, that are celebrating all of the different ways we are doing International Education Week,” Mallard said.

Events during International Education Week include international star-gazing that will be held at the UNA planetarium starting at 7 p.m. with Melvin Blake on Nov. 18.

“He’s doing programming both in English and Spanish which I think is very exciting,” Mallard said.

International Education Week is open to the public and will encourage lifelong learning, said Evelyn Roberson, administrative assistant in the Office of International Affairs.

“I think that our international students are so proud of where they come from and what their traditions are that when they have the opportunity to display that they get so excited,” Roberson said.

The events entail a host of student organizations putting on events that will include Pride of Africa, Chinese Student Organization and Latin Dance Night.

International Education Week will also provide the opportunity to meet and learn with other students about the different international organizations available on campus.

“I hope my fellow students are more aware of the culture and diversity that our campus offers,” said senior Laura Lopez.

International Education Week is a fun filled week of educational learning of culture that surrounds the campus on a daily basis, she said.

“I’m pretty excited to see all of the diversity and culture that our campus has to offer,” Lopez said. “I want to try new savory dishes that will possibly be integrated into my diet.”

International Education Week also brings opportunity for students to learn more about the Office of International Affairs, located in Powers Hall.

“International affairs is for everyone, domestic students, international students, you’re all welcome,” Mallard said.

A goal of International Affairs is a weekly international coffee where people can come in and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, Mallard said. To do this they hope to rework part of the office to be a nice relaxing space for students to enjoy.

This year International Education Week is promoting cultural exchange, Mallard said.

“UNA has traditionally been a culturally diverse school and that’s something we should be proud of,” Mallard said.