International Student and Scholar Services

An introduction to the nature of conflict, factors that influence how conflict arises, and cultural dimensions that shape conflict expectations. Participants learn about differing approaches to conflict across cultural contexts. Open to faculty, staff, and international scholars.

Spring is a season of renewal, and cultures around the world celebrate it in vibrant, meaningful ways. Join us as we explore global spring festivals and the values they represent—hope, joy, reflection, and community. Bring your stories and discover traditions you may never have encountered before. Free and open to all.

Join us for a Names Across Cultures workshop focused on Mandarin Chinese names! This interactive session will explore the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that shape Mandarin Chinese names. You’ll gain insight into name structures, pronunciation tips, and cultural context—guided by our presenter with lived experience and knowledge of Mandarin Chinese names.

In this session, participants will explore how people from different cultural backgrounds make meaning in distinct ways. Through case studies and guided dialogue, students will practice listening for understanding, identifying cultural logics behind unfamiliar behaviors, and engaging with difference without immediate judgment.

Take a mini-escape to Bollywood with a fun, beginner-friendly dance class. We’ll kick off with upbeat warm-ups, learn easy-to-follow signature moves, and build an energetic routine to chart-topping Bollywood hits, then finish with deep stretches and a feel-good cooldown. No experience needed.

This session explores how cultural differences show up in practice through the Intercultural Conflict Styles model, which describes four common ways people approach conflict. Participants examine the strengths and challenges of each style and consider how different styles interact. Open to faculty, staff, and international scholars.

This session focuses on recognizing and managing thoughts and emotions that arise in unfamiliar or challenging cultural situations. Participants will explore common responses to change and difference and practice strategies for staying grounded, reflective, and curious when things feel uncomfortable or unclear.

Humor is universal, yet what makes us laugh can be surprisingly different across cultures. This session takes a lighthearted look at jokes, comedic styles, playful expressions, and humorous misunderstandings. Come prepared to share a story or simply enjoy hearing how humor connects (and sometimes confuses) us. Free and open to all.

This session offers practical guidance and foundational knowledge for campus professionals who work with international students. Topics will include common challenges international students face, such as immigration regulations, academic expectations, language barriers, cultural adjustment, and emotional well-being, as well as the campus and community resources available.

Get ready to sample the flavors of the world at the 14th Annual Taste of Language! Just like sampling dishes from a diverse menu, this event offers a "menu" of languages to try. Each short session is like a flavorful bite, giving you a delicious introduction to the sounds and rhythms of languages from around the globe.