Your May 2024 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.
New Mustangs welcomed at Summer International Student Orientation
This month, we welcomed new international undergraduate and graduate students beginning their studies this summer.
Between April 5 and May 23, Western International staff and volunteers hosted a variety of online workshops and international orientation events, including a Welcome Centre, New Student Celebration, Pizza Lunch for Spouses and Families, webinars with tips for settling in at Western and more.
Planning is already underway for International Student Orientation this fall which will begin August 26 with the opening of the Welcome Centre and continue throughout September! More details will be shared in our summer outreach to incoming students and on our website as they are finalized.
A conversation with Lily Cho
In a recent article in Western News, Lily Cho, vice-provost and associate vice-president (International), reflected on her first year in the role and shared her thoughts on supporting international and exchange students, Western’s global engagement plan and the importance of encouraging and celebrating diversity and inclusivity on campus.
Student Spotlight: Meet Kaia
Meet Katarina (Kaia), a second-year student studying psychology at Huron University College and completing a minor in Italian at Western. Kaia is completing a study abroad program this summer in Arezzo, Italy.
"I am beyond excited for my international experience! It’s not just about putting the knowledge from my Italian classes to use - it’s also about forging connections with new people, exploring a different culture, and discovering prospective career opportunities abroad." - Kaia
Kaia recently took over our Instagram Story to share a day in her life in Italy! Watch our channel this summer for more student takeovers from abroad!
May 28 - Faculty/staff session:
Co-op work permits for international students
Learn more about the government regulations pertaining to international students whose programs include work experience as part of their curriculum. Presenters will discuss who can apply for a co-op or intern work permit.
May 28, 3:00 to 4:00 pm on Zoom
Asian Heritage Month
May is Asian Heritage Month, a time to honour and recognize the accomplishments of Canadians with Asian heritage at Western and beyond.
This year's theme, "Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future: Amplifying Asian Canadian Legacy," celebrates the legacy and contributions of people of Asian origin in Canada while also looking forward to the future with optimism and hopefulness.
Join Western in celebrating Asian Heritage Month by attending events hosted by the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, including Mass Capture: Photography and Chinese Exclusion in Canada on May 30.
Did you know?
Global Café events are still offered in the summer months on a bi-weekly schedule for June, July and August. All Western students are welcome to drop by for fun, food and friends!
Each event has a unique theme and opportunities to get creative, sing karaoke, play ping-pong, meet people from around the world and learn about different cultures and experiences.
If you have ideas, suggestions or opportunities with an international focus to share, please let us know at wicomms@uwo.ca.
