“International Education Week (IEW) is an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. This joint initiative of the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of State is part of our efforts to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and to attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn and exchange experiences.” —U.S. Department of Education
Berkeley Global wouldn’t be Berkeley Global without international education. That is why the week of November 15–19 is important to us. We value our visiting students and all that they bring to our community. For decades students have brought a new perspective to UC Berkeley while forming new connections with our domestic students, staff and faculty.
Alumni Thoughts
Our students and alumni are what keep international education going. Without them, we wouldn’t be us and we are grateful for the opportunity to host students from over 100 different countries.
Being an international student is a unique and unforgettable opportunity. It is a time to explore new cultures, create new connections and experience education in a new way. Although it is their time to learn, it is important to note how they positively influence us throughout their time abroad.
Our alumni reflect back on their time as international students:
—Eduardo Ormeno
—Elis Cotosky
“You will have the time of your life, set connections, extend your network, gain skills and you will leave your comfort zone—which will let you grow beyond your imagination!”
Staff Sentiments
When you think of staff and faculty, you think of leaders, teachers and influencers. But international education week reminds us that our students and alumni are also influencing us every day. Working with international students makes what we do both rewarding and motivating. And not to mention, each and every one of us is learning something new every day.
Of course, we can’t forget how international education impacts our office daily. We are proud to have staff from countries all over the world such as Peru, France, China, Germany, Mexico, Canada and so many more. Additionally, we have many employees who have experienced studying abroad themselves. Diversity, inclusion and education is what brings us all together here at Berkeley Global.
Let’s hear why our staff thinks international education is important—
“I think international education is always important because it facilitates the broadening of views which expand beyond country borders. Through international education, we can broaden viewpoints that help deepen understanding of different perspectives on many different topics. I believe it helps move society forward, that cultural capital students get exposed to. You get to learn new things, whether economics, politics, business, etc.; meet different kinds of people; and maybe visit new places in the world!”
–Luis Valencia
Manager, Career Services
“International education is important because it allows students to experience and understand different cultures and world views firsthand. Students who study internationally gain a great deal of independence and self-confidence because of all the new things they encounter along their journey. Academically, students are usually exposed to new ideas and pedagogy that they would otherwise not get to learn at their home university, which helps them develop as global citizens.”
–Lauren Magsanay
Adviser, Berkeley Global Access Programs
“International education connects us with the rest of the world in a personalized way. Whether you are a visiting student, or connecting with international students at your home university, you are able to discuss the elements of cultures. Because of this, international education can help improve cross-cultural skills, give new perspectives to the world around us, and even spark creativity or change when returning home. As a visiting student, you are able to create an experience that will shape you as you grow into your academic and professional career.”
–Audrey Foulk
Adviser, Office of Admissions
How You Can Celebrate International Education Week
Being Black Abroad
Tuesday, November 16
2–3:30 pm PT | UC Berkeley, Fannie Lou Hamer Black Resource Center
Social Justice and Study Abroad Info Session
Wednesday, November 17
6–8 pm PT | Virtual
Connecting Through Art: An IEW Event
Thursday, November 18
6–8 pm PT | UC Berkeley, Dwinelle 279
Immigration Q&A for International Students
Friday, November 19
3–4 pm PT | Virtual
