International Education Week highlights how VCU welcomes and fosters global learning

By Amelia Heymann

Virginia Commonwealth University's Global Education Office is celebrating International Education Week with an eye toward an increasingly integrated world.

Started by the U.S. State Department and Department of Education in 2000, International Education Week is now celebrated in more than 100 countries. Jill Blondin, Ph.D., associate vice provost for global initiatives in the Global Education Office, said the week is an important initiative.

"This year's theme addresses international education and the future," Blondin said. "We want to celebrate globally engaged individuals and the many ways in which they play a part in making our community and the world a better place."

Among highlights of this year's event lineup:

VCU International Student Achievement series

Monday, Nov.18 - Thursday, Nov. 21

The VISA series of advisor-led virtual workshops supports students with F-1 visas, with topics including international travel, Pre-Completion and Post-Completion Optional Practical Training and post-graduation planning. Visit the VISA webpage for information and registration.

Dine Around the World

Monday, Nov. 18 (11 a.m. - 3 p.m.), Shafer Court Dining Center (810 Cathedral Place)

Students with corresponding meal plans can enjoy an international dining experience, featuring cuisines from the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and East and South Asia. Study abroad information will be available, along with an opportunity to speak with international students and scholars as well as students who have studied abroad.

Thanksgiving Dinner

Monday, Nov. 18 (6:30 - 8:30 p.m.), STEM Building / Room 216 (817 W. Franklin St.)

The event is sold out for international students, but GEO is still looking for domestic student volunteers to participate in the Thanksgiving meal and cultural discussion. (Menu items will include vegan and gluten-free options, and no pork will be served.) Students can sign up to volunteer here.

The event is full for international students, but they can sign up for the waitlist here.

Study Abroad Showcase

Tuesday, Nov. 19 (1 - 3 p.m.), Commons / Richmond Salons (907 Floyd Ave.)

Students can learn about spending spring break or summer abroad on a group program guided by VCU faculty. The session will feature programming from the College of Humanities and Sciences, Honors College and the schools of Social Work, Business and the Arts, among others.

Spring 2025 F-1 Students Meetup

Wednesday, Nov. 20 (9 a.m.), via Zoom

For new international students preparing to travel to the United States, this pre-arrival virtual meetup can answer questions to help them get situated at VCU. Topics include F-1 visa applications, travel to the U.S., housing, orientation and more. Register here.

ELP Tea Time with Rodney the Ram Wednesday, Nov. 20 (10:30 - 11:30 a.m.), Grace Street Center / third-floor lounge (912 West Grace St.)

Tea, coffee, snacks, conversation and a special appearance from Rodney the Ram will celebrate International Education Week. This event is open to all.

Empowering the Self through Indigenous Frameworks

Wednesday, Nov. 20 (5 - 6:30 p.m.), via Zoom

Featuring Ray John, this is the first of three workshops in this series. The Indigenous educator from the Oneida Nation of the Thames, Ontario, Canada, will explore the SHIELD framework, a holistic approach to uplift the self and foster self-awareness. Through guided reflection and activities, participants will learn how to better connect with themselves and others.

Register here.

For more about International Education Week' events, visit global.vcu.edu/international-ed-week.

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