PSU to observe International Education Week with activities
Thursday, November 7, 2019 2:30 PM
Arts & Entertainment, News, Campus Culture, People and Society
Pittsburg, KS
International Education Week, a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education, is a coast-to-coast celebration of the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.
At Pittsburg State University, where 275 international students are enrolled from 36 countries, the week will feature a variety of activities open to not just students, faculty, and staff, but community, as well.
“We're fortunate to have exposure to so many different cultures right here in Pittsburg,” said Aaron Hurt, director of International Programs and Services. “Our international students are proud to share with us. We all learn so much from each other!”
The week — officially observed nationally from Nov. 18-23 — kicks off at PSU on Monday, Nov. 18, when the International Student Association hosts a Tea Tasting in Yates Hall from 9 to 11 a.m. The event is free and open to the public and will feature samples of a variety of teas and coffees from around the world.
For lunch, Gibson Dining Hall and Gorilla Palace in the lower level of the Overman Student Center will add international flair to their menus and offer Honey Barbeque Stir Fry. Both restaurants are open to the campus and community.
On Tuesday, Nov. 19, presentations by international students regarding their countries will be held in the Sunflower Room of the Overman Student Center from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
On Wednesday, Nov. 20, the Study Abroad Office will host the Study Abroad Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Gorilla Crossing in the Overman Student Center. The PSU Study Abroad program serves PSU students who would like to study abroad for a summer, semester, or academic year, and PSU faculty who would like to lead short-term programs.
“This expo is directed at current students to help them become aware of the incredible opportunities that exist in PSU’s Study Abroad program,” Hurt said.
Also during that time at the Crossing, the International Student Association will offer the campus and community the chance to stop by and learn to write their names in different languages on bookmark keepsakes.
From 1 to 2 p.m. in the Governor’s Room of the Overman Student Center, international students will make additional presentations regarding their countries.
On Thursday, Nov. 21, Gibson Dining Hall and Gorilla Crossing will continue their specials for International Education Week and offer a Teriyaki Turkey Bowl and noodle dishes for lunch.
On Friday, Nov. 22, the International Student Association will host Taste and Sounds of Nations from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. in the lower level of Grubbs Hall, followed by performances from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Crimson and Gold Ballroom of the Overman Student Center.
This annual event is free and open to the public and enables attendees to travel the world in one night without leaving campus by tasting a variety of food samples from several countries and view cultural music and dance performances.
Throughout the academic year, additional opportunities to share and learn about PSU international students occur through cultural celebrations hosted by clubs and organizations, including the Korean Student Association, African Student Association, Chinese Student Association, and Indian Association.
For lunch that day, Gibson Dining Hall will offer a Cuban Panini.