International Village: Cultures Come Together at Loyola University Chicago
By Kelsey Holmes, Greenheart Club Intern
International Education Week at Loyola University Chicago is an exciting time to be a Rambler. Loyola offers more than 100 programs in 55 countries, and has three campuses abroad in Rome, Beijing, and Ho Chi Minh City. By working closely with the wonderful staff and faculty, students are able to achieve their dreams of studying in a different place, learning about a completely new culture and immersing yourself in a way of life that often varies much from your own. I was able to take full advantage of this during my time as a Loyola undergrad and studied abroad for two semesters in Morocco and India!
While study abroad is a huge component of many Loyola students’ experiences, the university also offers a wide range of options to international students looking to obtain an education in the United States.
Loyola’s international students make up almost 3.5% of the student body and represent 82 different countries. International Education Week was a way to highlight and celebrate all of Loyola students’ achievements. Loyola’s Office of International Programs and English Language Learning Program held events throughout the week that culminated in a finale that brought everyone together: International Village.
International Village was a way for students to showcase their own cultures, customs and traditions through fashion, language and food. Among the countries represented were India, China, Mexico, Greece, Nepal, Angola, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, and many, many more! Students set up stations throughout the room and spoke with guests about various aspects of culture in their home communities. Many of them brought home cooked traditional food, provided fun activities for participants, and even taught some of their native language!
Students from Spain and Saudi Arabia strike a pose.
The night concluded with a fashion show, where students got to strut their stuff in traditional attire. It was so fun to see the beautiful and diverse fashion from across the globe – some even got created and busted out a dance move or two! The event had a great turnout; international students as well as U.S. undergrads all came out and had a great time. It was a perfect end to a week full of learning and fostering cultural exchange.
Greenheart loves promoting cultural awareness and exchange. How did you celebrate International Education Week? Comment below!