International Student and Scholar Services

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.

Join us for an engaging and interactive cultural showcase exploring Azerbaijan — a unique country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. This session will introduce participants to Azerbaijan’s geography, history, traditions, and modern achievements.

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

In this session, participants will reflect on challenging intercultural experiences and examine how meaning is constructed during moments of cultural dissonance. Students will practice reframing difficult situations as sources of insight and growth, strengthening their ability to learn from difference rather than avoid it.

Join the Native American House and International Student and Scholar Services in this trip to St Louis focused on learning more about, engaging with, and honoring Native American traditions and communities. We are excited to be hosting a day-long Native-focused St Louis excursion!

This session introduces the Intercultural Development Continuum (IDC), a framework used to understand and enhance intercultural competence. Open to faculty, staff, and international scholars.

Beauty and personal style carry unique meanings in different cultures. In this session, we will explore how people around the world express identity through clothing, color, special-occasion attire, and notions of elegance. Join us for a lively conversation that highlights creativity, tradition, and cultural expression. Free and open to all.

This session focuses on bridging cultural differences in relationships, teamwork, and collaborative settings. Participants will explore strategies for shifting perspectives, attuning to others’ emotional and cultural cues, and adapting communication and behavior in ways that are effective, respectful, and appropriate across cultural contexts.

Join us for the International Families Celebration, an event that celebrates togetherness, joy, and cultural richness that families bring to our community. Held in recognition of the traditional International Day of Families, this family-friendly gathering invites parents, children and all to connect through fun, globally inspired activities that encourage learning.

Learn how to use plain language principles to enhance clarity, accessibility, and inclusivity in communication with culturally and linguistically diverse audiences. This session provides practical techniques for simplifying complex information, reducing ambiguity, and supporting understanding across cultural and language differences. Open to faculty, staff, and scholars.

More detailed information to come. Check back soon!

Join us on a journey into Amish Country, home to the Amish people and a culture uniquely distinct from others. The Amish primarily reside in Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania, with a smaller settlement located in central Illinois. Their culture is rooted in the Old Order traditions of Christianity and is characterized by a commitment to simplicity, humility, and community.

This session focuses on applying intercultural awareness and skills to everyday academic, professional, and community contexts. Participants will reflect on how culture shapes interactions, decision-making, and relationships, and explore practical ways to continue developing intercultural competence over time.

As the semester comes to a close, this relaxing and uplifting session invites participants to reflect on the simple joys and comforting practices that bring calm during busy or stressful times. Share the activities, routines, and traditions that help you feel grounded, and learn how others find moments of peace. Free and open to all.