Your September 2023 edition
Welcome to the International Insights newsletter, a monthly roundup of news, opportunities and updates with an international focus, curated by Western International for the Western community.
Launching Western's Global Engagement Plan
Western recently celebrated the launch of a new global engagement strategy to guide its efforts to drive positive change around the world.
The internationalization plan, called Western in the World, seeks to increase Western’s international reach and research through reciprocal partnerships around the world that build on Western’s areas of expertise, strengthen recruitment of and supports for international students, and enhance global learning opportunities. The plan was approved by Western’s Board of Governors on June 29. It will guide the university’s global strategy until 2030.
"One of the really exciting things about Western is the way in which our research has always been world class and our teaching has always been world class," said Lily Cho, vice-provost and associate vice-president (international).
"We've always been globally engaged but enhancing Western’s global presence means making sure the world understands how great this university is."
Celebrating International Student Orientation
This fall, Western welcomed more than 1,400 new international and exhange students to campus. During our four-day International Student Orientation program, nearly 1,000 of those students met with our staff and volunteer team, as well as with campus partners, attended events and information sessions, connected with other students and were supported in their transition to Canada and to Western.
Watch this video to hear from some students about their experience.
In Case You Missed It: Global Learning In the News
Program support for spouses of international students
Do you know of an international student whose partner might benefit from meeting others who are new to Canada?
Spouses and partners of international students are invited to join weekly Tea and Information Sessions, where they can connect with each other, practice their English and learn about Canadian culture.
Save the date: International Week 2023 - November 20-24
Mark your calendars for International Week! This annual event celebrates all things international at Western, including our diverse community, global opportunities, partnerships abroad and much more!
Event details are being finalized! Watch for details on how to get involved and the schedule to come.
AWB: Call for Volunteers
Academics without Borders (AWB) is looking for volunteers to assist with the development and delivery of online and blended projects in collaboration with faculty and staff at our partner institutions in low- or middle-income countries. The support provided by the volunteer will vary with each project, including strategic guidance aimed at designing high-quality online educational spaces, adapting content to online delivery, and offering technical assistance.
Submission deadline: Octorber 12, 2023
Did you know?
Western International has a team of International Learning Ambassadors - current Western students who have participated in international learning experiences and are available to offer insights and support to students considering going abroad.
If you have ideas, suggestions or opportunities with an international focus to share, please let us know at wicomms@uwo.ca.
