International Student and Scholar Services

In this session, participants will explore how their cultural backgrounds influence values, assumptions, communication styles, and ideas of what feels “normal.” Through guided reflection and discussion, students will begin identifying their own cultural lenses and how these shape interactions in both familiar and unfamiliar contexts.

This session examines how culture influences perception, interpretation, and judgment. Participants will practice distinguishing between observation and interpretation, explore common sources of misunderstanding, and learn strategies for suspending evaluation in intercultural interactions.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.