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Center for International Studies

Study Abroad Fair 2008 | Conversation Mentors | Welcome Back Party | International Student Orientation | CIS Upcoming Events

Study Abroad Fair 2008

The Office of Study Abroad hosted their annual Study Abroad Fair on September 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the University Union’s Sandburg Lounge. Representatives from six study abroad organizations were in attendance as well as several faculty members and student volunteers. Prospective study abroad participants were able to talk with the various representatives and receive more information about study abroad and scholarship opportunities. The fair was well attended and many students have since visited the office to find out more about study abroad programs.

Conversation Mentors Begin Work

Each Tuesday afternoon during the fall and spring semesters, a group of volunteers converse with the international students of WESL (Western’s English as a Second Language Institute) on a variety of cultural topics in a program called the WESL Conversation Mentors. The conversations are held in small groups, with each group consisting of one or two conversation mentors from the WIU and/or Macomb community and two or three WESL students. The conversations are intended to provide the students with an enjoyable way to develop their communication skills in English and the opportunity to get to know people from the surrounding community. Anyone interested in joining as a mentor can contact Steve Kaesdorf at S-Kaesdorf@wiu.edu or at 309-298-1107.

Welcome Back Party

On September 10, the Office of Study Abroad hosted a Welcome Back Party for students returning home from overseas. Provost Jack Thomas, Dr. Terry Rodenberg, and the Assistant Director for Study Abroad, Bridget Carey, all spoke on the importance of study abroad and giving back to the WIU community. Student Vito Manola gave a presentation about his time in Italy, and another former study abroad student, Steve Goslee, gave information about a new student organization he is interested in starting, WASA: Western Ambassadors for Study Abroad.

International Student Orientation

From August 18-22, the Center for International Studies held student orientation for international students. It consisted of a week long schedule of informational sessions and activities to help students acclimate to their new school and to American culture. Students participated in activities including library tours, shopping trips, meals at different restaurants, American culture night, a session on the American classroom, and a tour of Macomb. Students were provided information such as maps of campus and Macomb, a survival guide, and information about clubs and activities on campus.

CIS Upcoming Events

Cultural Cafes:
Kuwait – October 30
Iran – November 17

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