International Education Week at Kirkwood Community College is a weeklong celebration of the impact global learning and international education experiences have in preparing students for successful careers in a global economy. The week not only highlights this impact but also provides students and faculty with numerous opportunities to engage in global education.
Elizabeth O’Brien, international student services specialist, said it is the department’s mission to have as many people as possible engage with global learning while at Kirkwood. “As students attend the different events held during International Education Week, it is our hope that they find inspiration through global opportunities, and they leave feeling inspired,” she said.
The first event of the week was the Global Potluck, held at the Kirkwood Rec Center on Nov. 14. The potluck encouraged students and faculty to bring a special, meaningful dish to share as a communal meal. “This is one of my favorite events each year,” O’Brien said. “Food brings people together and opens doors, and this is always a great event to engage the campus community.”
On Nov. 17, the Iowa Hall stage hosted the International Showcase. This event invited everyone to enjoy coffee and tea from around the world and discover international talents from the Kirkwood community. Later the same day, Campus Conversations took place in Iowa Hall B. The program provided an open dialogue on global conflict and what it means to protect human rights. O’Brien said attending events like these is a great opportunity to be curious, ask questions and take part in creating a more connected world.
The Global Learning Lounge on Nov. 19 in Iowa Hall offered students and faculty a chance to tune into the global learning podcast and hear stories from students who participated in the study abroad program. The lounge later opened drop-in sessions for anyone interested in global opportunities. “By studying abroad, students are developing skills that make them more competitive in the job market,” O’Brien said. “These skills include adaptability, communication, problem-solving, cultural competency, collaboration, foreign language skills, time management and more.”
O’Brien said the benefits of studying abroad are not only professional but also personal. She said students can discover more about themselves, overcome new challenges and gain confidence.
The final event of International Education Week was the Global Expo, hosted on Nov. 20 in Iowa Hall A and B. Students interested in getting involved with global learning or studying abroad can visit the Global Learning Lounge.
Categories: Campus News, News
