Around the world in one week! Over 350+ community members attended the annual International Bazaar, where 25 countries represented their heritage through food, as part of International Education Week. The initiative is hosted by the Office of International Student Services and the International Club.
Anh Nguyen ’25, president of the International Club, says, “I just hope everyone can enjoy the events and know that we are putting so much effort into developing an inclusive and cultural community that everyone is welcome and appreciated for wherever they come from.”
International Education Week consisted of a:
- Lunchtime Learning Session, where international students were invited to learn about work authorization in the United States. The event was supported by the Center for Career and Professional Development and the Center for Business and Economics.
- Late Night Tea, in partnership with A5, students sampled snacks and teas from Asia while learning the cultural significance of each beverage.
- European Christmas Market, activities were inspired by traditional European Christmas markets.
- International Fashion Show, a showcase of cultural attire and performances.
- International Bazaar, a culinary event where students prepare traditional food from around the world.
An international photo contest was also held so students had the opportunity to share photos they’ve taken worldwide. The top three winners have their photos featured on the second floor of the Campus Center in the Global Gators display case.
Lenée McCandless, Assistant Dean for International Student Services, and Angel Astaria, International Programs Manager and advisor to the International Club, were noted as instrumental in making the week come to fruition.
“International Education Week is an opportunity to celebrate the power of international education and exchange and the impact it has on the world and in small communities such as ours,” says McCandless. “The International Club works extremely hard to provide a week of programming to help others learn more about the cultures that our students come from. I’m incredibly proud of the work that they do to make it so successful.”
