MSU to observe International Education Week with celebration events

Contact: Mary Pollitz

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Mississippi State is spotlighting its global diversity with International Education Week Nov. 17-21, hosting various events celebrating international cultures, research and student experiences.

Sponsored by MSU’s International Institute, the weeklong observation invites students, faculty and staff to explore the world through food, research, music, art and community programs.

The International Institute, working with the Holmes Center for Student Success, College of Education, College of Professional and Continuing Studies, Center for Teaching and Learning, Dining Services, Sanderson Center and Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District’s Partnership Middle School, will coordinate several campus events, including:

Throughout the week, all MSU students, staff, and faculty are invited to participate in the “Global Research Innovation Quest,” an event showcasing the university’s global research where participants “travel around the globe” to complete a research map, and to enjoy Delicious DestiNATIONS at the Marketplace at Perry, where MSU Dining Services will feature dishes from different countries and regions each day.

Monday [Nov. 17]

—“Optional Practical Training Workshop,” 2 p.m., McCool Hall, Room 215. The International Services Office will provide information for those international students exploring post-graduation opportunities and work authorization.

—“Minute-to-Win-It Games,” 4-6 p.m., Walker Hall, Room 231. This fun, fast-paced social event is open for all students to meet new friends through friendly team challenges.  

Tuesday [Nov. 18]

—“Global Citizenship Workshop and Discussion,” 11 a.m., Walker Hall, Room 231. Attendees will explore global citizenship and its role in this changing, interconnected world through reflective conversation and fun activities.

—“Holiday Cocoa and Community Events,” 2-4 p.m., Walker Hall, Room 231. All MSU students are invited to enjoy hot cocoa while writing cards for friends, families and members of the community and local organizations in need of support during the holiday season.

Wednesday [Nov. 19]

—“English Conversation Partners Recruitment Table,” 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Colvard Student Union, first floor. Open for all MSU students, staff and faculty, the university’s English Learning Institute is recruiting conversation partners for the spring semester to pair with ELI students and help them improve mastery of the English language.

—“Global Night,” 6-9 p.m., Colvard Student Union Ballroom. Open to all MSU students, staff and faculty, the annual event celebrates all cultures, ideas and interests within the university student body. The event includes cultural exploration, performances, food and connections.

Thursday [Nov. 20]

—Ornament Painting Workshop,” 11 a.m., Walker Hall, ELI Classroom, Room 231. ELI invites students and International Institute staff to decorate Christmas tree ornaments.

—“Sound of Identity: Exploring Brazilian Culture and Educational Impact of Osvaldo Lacerda,” 11 a.m., Music Building, Recital Hall, Room 1050. This lecture-recital explores the many unpublished and underperformed works of 20th-century Brazilian music trailblazer Lacerda. 

—“International Institute Holiday Decorating,” 2 p.m., Walker Hall, Room 235. Open to ELI students and International Institute staff, this event invites participants to decorate the holiday tree in the institute’s lobby.

—“Study Abroad Photo Contest Reception,” 4 p.m., Walker Hall, Room 231. The Office of Study Abroad showcases student submissions to the annual photo contest, featuring images that capture the spirit of MSU students’ global adventures.

—“Global Trivia,” 6-8 p.m., McCool Hall, Room 111. Open to all MSU students, Study Abroad Ambassadors host trivia to test students’ knowledge of travel hacks and world cultures.

—“Exchange Students School Visits.” MSU exchange students will visit local schools, discussing their home countries and intercultural experiences, connecting with the Starkville community and allowing local students to learn about the rich experiences international students provide.

Friday [Nov. 21]

—“Faculty Panel: How to Support International Students in the Classroom,” 1-2:30 p.m., Old Main Academic Center, Room 2130. Open to staff and faculty, this panel includes faculty members and an international student to teach best support practices for international students. This session will be offered in person and virtually.

—“HCSS Open House: Brewed to Success,” 2-4 p.m., Colvard Student Union, Suite 225. Hosted by the Holmes Center for Student Success, this open house invites students to explore the center’s space, learn about available resources and opportunities, and enjoy international coffee and refreshments.

—“International Futsal Tournament,” Sanderson Center. Open to MSU students, the Sanderson Center will host a tournament for participants to compete in indoor soccer. Students can register individually or as groups, and all players will be assigned to teams representing different countries.

For more on the Division of Access, Opportunity and Success visit, www.aos.msstate.edu; for the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center, visit www.hcdc.msstate.edu; and for the International Institute, visit www.international.msstate.edu.

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