Collegio Online

Issue date: 11/20/08 Section: Campus Life

Media Credit: Sunny Kim Aditi Kommidi, graduate student in accounting, eats India's traditional food called pav bhaji during the international week at Gorilla Crossing on Tuesday, Nov 18.

Media Credit: Sunny Kim Vidhi Kundalia, member of the Indian Students Association, cooks a traditional Indian food called pav bhaji during the International Education Week at Gorilla Crossing on Tuesday, Nov. 18.

A crowd of nearly 50 students filled the Overman Student Center at 11 a.m. to noon on Monday to experience International Education Week, organized by the International Student Association.
At least five table displays from different countries showed traditional fare and promoted their country to PSU students.
Casey Khoo, junior in communication, says she was glad for the chance to introduce Malaysia to PSU students.
"I am happy in imparting about my country to American students, and they are curious where Malaysia is," she said.
However, Lucy Chai, junior in business administration from China, encourages PSU students to participate and explore other countries' cultures.
"This is really a good opportunity, especially for Americans, to learn and exchange experiences in the United States," she said.
As part of the week's events, international cuisines are being served in the Gorilla Crossing until Friday, Nov. 21. Monday featured food from Paraguay; Tuesday, India; and Wednesday, Saudi Arabia. Today, the Crossing will feature food from Malaysia and on Friday, food from Russia. International students will also host cultural performances from noon to 1 p.m. in the U-Club.
Julia Helminiak, PSU study abroad coordinator, urges all individuals interested in international education and exchange activities, including schools, universities, international organizations and associations, to pursue those interests. The International Knowledge and Experience Certificate (IKE) promotes international activities among students.
"This program is offered to anyone who wants to get involved internationally, inside or outside (the U.S.)," Helminiak said. The IKE certificate consists of three components of international experience: study abroad, academic courses and co-curricular programming.
"We encourage students to explore all different countries, such as Germany, Russia, France, South America and Korea, and it has been increasing the last eight years," she said.
Jeff Hashman, International program coordinator, called the week's events a good way to attract students to study abroad programs.
"Education is part of our efforts to promote and make people aware and expose and open new door for them," he said.
These events will conclude with the annual Tastes and Sounds of Nations 7-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, in McCray Hall.

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