Cal Poly students, faculty and staff are invited to join the International Center in celebrating International Education Week, November 13-17. An initiative of the U.S. Departments of State and Education, International Education Week provides opportunities for the campus community to come together to learn, share, and broaden our worldview through cultural exchange. Throughout the week, events will offer opportunities to win prizes, sample global cuisine, and learn how international education can continue to enrich the Cal Poly community.

Students are invited to attend this year’s exciting lineup of info sessions, including Study in Africa, Study Abroad in Latin America, and Debunking Study Abroad Myths for Transfer Students. A fan-favorite for students and faculty is our Sipping Coffee and Spilling Tea gathering where a panel of international and domestic students share their perspectives on adapting to a new culture. Attendees will be able to sample specialty coffee and tea from around the globe while listening, learning and connecting with students.

All with an appetite for learning are welcome to join Campus Dining for a weeklong showcase of international-themed meals, with recipes submitted by fellow global Mustangs. On Nov. 14 in the University Union, the ThankFul event will bring the campus together to share an international-themed community feast, celebrate diversity as a strength, and count our blessings in a spirit of gratitude.

The week’s slate includes ample learning opportunities for faculty and staff as well. On Friday Nov. 17th we are hosting a virtual Open House about International Opportunities for Faculty & Staff. Dr. Nishanta Rajakaruna of the Biological Sciences Department and Dr. Gregory F. Domber of the History Department will share their recent experiences abroad as Fulbright Scholars. International Center staff will highlight opportunities for faculty and staff interested in teaching or conducting research overseas. This is a great opportunity to learn and inquire about programs available or how to create your own. On Nov. 15, the International Student Inclusivity Workshop will lead an engaging discussion sharing ideas on how to support international students in order to foster an atmosphere of inclusion on campus.

Now in its 14th year at Cal Poly, the event embodies the International Center’s commitment to cultivating greater understanding, mutual respect, and inclusion through the power of global education. “Our work supports Learn by Doing in global context, thereby preparing students to serve our international community with cultural humility and a sense of ongoing curiosity,” said Cari Vanderkar, Assistant Vice Provost for International Programs. “Studying abroad allows for transformative experiences academically, personally and professionally. Global perspectives learned as students at Cal Poly will shape the leaders our graduates become,” said Vanderkar. “The values instilled will ultimately shape the world.”

Learn more about these and other events on the International Center Website.