Bringing the world together
Though the rewards of higher education will undoubtedly pay off, it is difficult for them to leave their loved ones behind and embark on such a life-changing adventure. Fortunately for these students, the GCSU International Club offers a safe haven for them to share their experiences and bond with others feeling the same emotions.
“Joining the International Club was, and still is, the best way to meet new people who do not instantly judge you because you are not American. There are people around you who are in your shoes, and that makes things easier,” said Chichi Ifionu from Nigeria. “It is a place you can go where you do not need to fake an American accent to fit in, and you can be yourself without getting weird looks from others.”
Though the members of this diverse group may have different cultures, beliefs and political views, one common thread unites them: they are all experiencing both the sadness and joys of leaving home.
“When I first came here, I realized I was going to miss my home, said Jose Guerra, International Club president from Belize. “I also immediately realized I wasn’t alone. I relate to these students, and that’s what brought me to the club. We are a family.”
The students involved in the International Club bond by participating in picnics, sports, coffee nights, bowling and skating nights, weekly meetings and weekend trips. Several members traveled to Washington D.C., over spring break and others are planning to visit the Georgia Aquarium and even go sky diving later in the semester.
The club’s biggest event is the International Dinner, which brought a crowd of over 300 guests and 100 students this semester. International students represented their home countries with clothing, singing and dancing as they enjoyed dinner and an hour long talent show. Another big event hosted by the International Club is International Day, an event during fall semester where the students set up tables on Front Campus to represent different countries. Each table has activities, maps, ornaments and other memorabilia brought by students from that country.
“We have more diversity on our campus that day than we do any other day of the year,” said Dr. Dwight Call, assistant vice president of the International Education Center.
Events like these offer international students a chance to bond with each other, but they also allow them to share their own culture with American citizens. Some students continue to share their talents even outside of the club events. Jingran Zhao, a student from Zhengzhou, China, offers Taiji classes, while Andrea Valera from Venezuela teaches belly dancing. Guerra is also president of GCSU’s Salsa Club, and many of the international students are involved in GCSU athletics. The Brazilian members of the GCSU tennis team are even giving away an authentic Brazilian dinner at the upcoming athletic auction.
While the club offers numerous opportunities to GCSU’s international students, it also has benefits for U.S. citizens.
“It’s a really wonderful opportunity for all students to learn about other cultures, meet people and learn what’s happening around the world,” said Libby Davis, International Student Adviser.
Three of five club officers are U.S. citizens, and Davis said that the club welcomes students from all over the globe. It is a great way for those who may not be able to study abroad to still learn about other cultures and eliminate misconceptions.
“Having so many students from so many places together in one environment makes for a community like no other,” said Eric Raymond, International Club vice president from Watkinsville, Ga.
Posted by Colonnade Archives
on Apr 10 2009. Filed under Features.
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