EMU Today

YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan University’s Office for International Students and Scholars partnered with the International Student Association (ISA) and Campus Life to host a week of events to celebrate International Education Week – an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. This initiative highlights the value of global and cultural competencies and promotes programs that help U.S. students and teachers develop global skills for success in the 21st century.

“The celebration’s theme was "Home, Far From Home" which was an opportunity for International Students to look back at their country and present who they are,” said Chotika Pitaktouyhan, president of EMU’s International Student Association. “It is important for us as leaders to help students celebrate their culture and the opportunity to educate the campus community about their history and impact on education.”

Throughout the week, students showcased their cultures in a safe environment and hosted tailored events to encourage cultural awareness and embrace diversity and differences. The week consisted of three events; Explore the World, International Treat Bags, and International Students Appreciation.

Explore the World provided a showcase for students to share visuals of their countries, the food, cultures, and how to support them throughout their educational journey. In addition, the campus community visited tables in the Student Center to learn how impactful different cultures are worldwide.

“It was wonderful to see so many students eager to learn from each other, embrace cultures, and try new foods during International Education Week,” said Jessica Rindo, international student advisor for OISS at EMU. “Hosting and participating in these events for EMU's international student population and the campus community was a privilege, and I look forward to participating again in the future,” she added.

The International Treat Bags event was produced by campus life. Campus life hosted a table in the Student Center lobby and provided treat bags to students. The bags included flags representing different countries and snacks to accompany them. Some snacks included Jelly from Southeast Asia, a chocolate bar from the middle east, and traditional Hispanic candies, among others. 

Additionally, Eastern’s community participated in International Students Appreciation Day. The Office for International Students and Scholars hosted an international student appreciation reception. They provided culturally specific foods, raffles, prizes, and activities. International students came together to socialize and build community.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 14,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on university news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.