The International Student Association kicks off International Week today with a parade and culminates Sunday with its signature evening event, which includes a buffet dinner and cultural performances.
“I personally want our University community, as well as people from its environs, who might be in attendance, to be exposed to other cultures,” ISA Co-Director Benson Ntiwas said.
“That should help debunk false, preconceived notions that are, unfortunately, promulgated by a biased media about other cultures. Also, whatever information is presented during this event might be of help to would-be international travelers.”
ISA Co-Director Samir Bandaogo said that because students’ incidental fees support International Week, University students should show some interest in where their money is being spent.
“We basically want all students to be aware of the diverse international student community on campus, and to allow them to experience other cultures right here on campus without having to go anywhere,” Bandaogo said. “I hope people will take advantage of all of the programs because we’re using incidental fees, and we’re doing this for them.”
ISA Event Coordinator Ohyoung Kim also said that International Week is just one way for University students raised in America to become involved in the ISA.
“We host numerous events on campus for both international and domestic students to have a better understanding of diverse culture (throughout the year),” Kim said. “For example, every Friday we host International Coffee Hour at the Mills International Center.”
International Week head coordinator Hailey Im added that she hoped the week creates commonalities between international and domestic students.
“I just want (domestic) University students to come and enjoy themselves and for people to be able to come to the ISA and ask questions about anything that is related to international cultures,” Im said. “I don’t want people to feel uncomfortable when talking to international students.”
The ISA has a coordination staff of 25 University students for International Week and will have more than 100 student volunteers throughout the week working on programs, workshops and presentations. The ISA hosts International Week with help from other student organizations, including the African Student Association, the Korean Student Association, the Kendo Club and the Women’s Center.
The ISA planned 20 events to take place around campus throughout the week. EMU Amphitheater events will relocate to Room 41 in the Student Recreation Center in the event of rain, Im said.
The ISA is still looking for additional volunteers. Those who work for three hours will receive a free T-shirt, and volunteers who put in five or more hours will also receive a ticket to International Night. Students who are interested in volunteering can go to the ISA office located outside of the Mills International Center.
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International Week offers cultural view
Daily Emerald
April 10, 2010
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