The third week of November was filled with various events at PLU. Starting with Study Away lounge and ending with Discoteca, International Education Week (IEW) highlighted the importance of broadening one’s worldly perspective through learning about other cultures.
One of the main events of IEW was Around the World (AW), where students from different countries had an opportunity to present their important insights into everyday life or culture. The fair was set up in the AUC with each country having its own table, tri-fold, and additional decorations.
Heather Jacobson, Assistant Director of International Student Services, was responsible for Around the World, and many other on-campus events for and involving international students. Jacobson comments that it was exciting to have more than 13 countries represented at AW, moreover, “we [PLU] currently have a little over 90 international students from over 30 countries. So, in at least over a decade, we haven’t had this many different countries represented.”
Alvaro Anglas, first-year international student at PLU, represented Peru at Around the World. Anglas said that it was important to him to share his culture and see other international students participate in this event. “I am proud of my country. Our country is beautiful and I am sure other people’s [countries] are too.” Moreover, AW helped Anglas to find a friend, who is also an international student from Peru. “I met him through this project, which is super nice because it’s bringing a really special person into my life.”
While IEW is designed to both promote study and work abroad opportunities and recognize the international student body on campus, PLU takes pride in having an inclusive global community at any given time. Jacobson commented that since this year PLU has “the most international students since fall semester 2017, we’re hoping to collaborate with some of the student clubs that have become more prominent as well.” The International Student Union, for example, has activities throughout the year that include adjusting to American culture and exploring the Pacific Northwest.
International students at PLU have an opportunity to educate and get help if needed not only during the IEW. Anglas commented that he feels supported as an international student at PLU. “They have many resources. You can just go to the help desk or… International Student Services, just talk to Heather [Jacobson] about whatever you have.”
International Education Week was successfully closed with a Discoteca on Friday night, November 17th. After a full week of learning and educating, Lutes enjoyed some energizing music and mocktails.
