The Office of International Affairs at the University of California, Merced, will celebrate International Education Week Nov. 14 to 18, with a series of events to highlight the rich cultures represented on campus and in the Merced community.
International Education Week (IEW) was established in 2000 to help prepare Americans for a global environment by highlighting opportunities to study, learn, and exchange experiences from around the world. This is UC Merced’s fourth year participating in the annual celebration. A list of events is available online.
It’s important for students to develop cross-cultural competency in their academic career to meet the challenges of the 21st century, said Rebecca Sweeley, director of international affairs at UC Merced.
“Whether by going abroad or pursuing global learning opportunities locally, students are able to expand their understanding of the world during their time with us,” Sweeley said. “We hope UC Merced's IEW events will help foster a greater sense of global community on campus and in the community.”
UC Merced’s theme for the week is “Celebrating One Human Family.” The week is also meant to encourage a greater awareness of other people, other countries, world affairs and their influence on everyone’s lives.
UC Merced’s events will provide opportunities for international students and scholars to celebrate their countries and cultures and for the campus community to share global learning and research experiences. Each day of the week will feature a variety of activities in addition to an award-winning film, travel abroad experiences and an ongoing exhibit at the Leo and Dottie Kolligian Library.
The Office of International Affairs is inviting submissions from community members for events or lectures that relate to this year’s theme. The deadline for submission for inclusion on the IEW website and promotional fliers is Nov. 4.
For more information or to submit an event proposal, please visit the website for International Education Week.
