WYOMISSING, Pa. – In recognition of International Education Week, Nov. 15-19, Penn State Berks will host a series of events designed to build bridges across the many different cultures represented at the college. Events will be hosted by the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee and the Global Studies baccalaureate program. International Education Week is a joint venture between the U.S. Departments of State and Education to celebrate the benefits of international education around the world.
Global Perspectives
Monday, Nov. 15, 12:15–1:30 p.m.
Perkins Student Center Auditorium
A panel of faculty and staff will share their experiences of living in different cultures, including tips and insights on what they learned and how it has influenced their worldview and professions. This event is free and open to the public.
The Importance of International Education
Monday, Nov. 15, 5 p.m.
Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room
Barbara Weickert, vice president of the Pennsylvania council on International Education (PACIE) will speak on the importance of international education in Pennsylvania higher education and K-12 institutions. This event is free and open to the public.
Students Crossing Cultures
Wednesday, Nov. 17, 5–6 p.m.
Perkins Student Center Lion's Den
A panel of international and domestic students will share their experiences of studying in a different country, including discussion of what is similar or different about the education systems and how they adjusted to a new system. This event is free and open to the public.
The World at Berks Culture Crawl
Wednesday, Nov. 17, 5–6:30 p.m.
Perkins Student Center lobby and Freyberger Gallery
Similar to an art crawl, participants will walk through the Perkins Student Center and the Freyberger Gallery and visit tables displaying interesting and informative facets of the different world and national cultures at Penn State Berks. This event is free and open to the public.
International Gala
Wednesday, Nov. 17, 5:30–8 p.m.
Perkins Student Center Multipurpose Room
This cultural extravaganza will be the highlight of International Education Week. The event includes an international fashion show and entertainment. Participants will also be able to share global cuisine with Penn State Berks administrators, faculty, staff, and students. This event is free and open to the public.
Study Abroad Session
Friday, Nov. 19, 12:15 p.m.
Perkins Student Center Lion's Den
This event is for Penn State students, who are invited to learn about study abroad opportunities, and how they can afford to participate, while a student at Penn State Berks. Students' experiences will be shared, and light refreshments provided.
For more information on International Education Week, contact Sharon Pitterson-Ogaldez, Coordinator of Diversity and International Programs, 610-396-6080 or via email at SUP373@psu.edu.