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International Center

International Education Week Returns Nov. 17–21, 2025, Fostering a Culture of Global Learning

Nov 10, 2025 | International Education Week, News

Two Cal Poly students sit at an International Center table during a campus event, smiling while handing out information and globe-shaped stress balls.

Cal Poly students, faculty and staff are invited to join the International Center in celebrating International Education Week (IEW) from November 17–21, 2025. An initiative of the U.S. Departments of State and Education, IEW brings the campus together to explore global perspectives, deepen cultural understanding and connect through international exchange.

Throughout the week, Cal Poly will host events that highlight the value of international education, offering chances to share ideas, enjoy international cuisine and learn how global engagement strengthens our campus and community.

This year’s schedule features interactive info sessions and student panels, including:

  • Cal Poly Scholars International Tea Party: Sample teas from around the world while you discover study abroad opportunities in the countries your tea comes from.
  • A Slice of Life Abroad: Hear firsthand stories from Cal Poly study abroad alumni, served with a side of pizza.
  • Transfer Students Can Study Abroad: Discover how transfer students can make international experiences part of their academic journey.

A favorite among students and faculty, the Sipping Coffee and Spilling Tea panel returns — an engaging, cross-cultural dialogue where international students share their experiences of adapting to new cultures and environments. Guests can enjoy boba tea — limited to the first 25 attendees — while connecting through conversation.

All are invited to explore internationally themed meals throughout the week in collaboration with Campus Dining, featuring recipes submitted by global Mustangs.

On Tuesday, Nov. 18, the ThankFul event will take place in the Campus Market from 11:10 a.m. to 1 p.m. — an international community feast where students, faculty and staff can come together in a spirit of gratitude to share culinary traditions and celebrate diversity as one of Cal Poly’s greatest strengths.

Faculty and staff will also have the chance to participate in global learning through a variety of events, such as the International Opportunities for Faculty and Staff Open House on Tuesday, Nov. 18. Faculty and staff are encouraged to attend this free session to explore opportunities to bring the world to their classroom — or take their classroom to the world — by teaching overseas, developing a new study abroad program, applying for a fellowship or professional development seminar, leading a group trip abroad and more. Refreshments will be provided.

Now in its 15th year at Cal Poly, International Education Week reflects the International Center’s ongoing commitment to building global citizenship through education. “Our work supports Learn by Doing in a global context, helping students prepare to serve our interconnected world with cultural humility and curiosity,” said Cari Vanderkar, Assistant Vice Provost for International Programs. “Studying abroad and engaging in international learning are transformative experiences that shape students academically, personally and professionally. These global perspectives will shape the future leaders Cal Poly graduates become.”

View the full event listing on the International Center website.