Every year, Hardin-Simmons University hosts International Week, a vibrant celebration of cultures from around the world, which is happening now. Behind the week full of events, performances and food from different countries is a small, dedicated group of student leaders and faculty,: the International Student Fellowship (ISF).
“I really want International Week to be meaningful to the current international students,” ISF advisor Tifani Smith said. “While we have traditional annual events, I want the student leadership to shape those events each year.”
The planning process is no small feat. With a relatively small international student population, the responsibility of organizing multiple events in just one week often falls on a handful of student leaders balancing their academic and work commitments.
“Students are juggling work and academic responsibilities while trying to offer five or more opportunities for the campus to experience and celebrate different cultures,” Smith said.
Despite the challenges, International Week has grown into a campus tradition that fosters connections between students of all backgrounds.
“Our business and social worlds have become so globally interconnected,” Smith said. “Many American college students have not had experience abroad. International Week is a small step toward promoting cultural awareness, global engagement and inclusivity.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of International Week is seeing international students share their heritage while domestic students gain exposure to new traditions.
“International students are excited to share elements of their culture, and domestic students have opportunities to experience aspects of life that they aren’t exposed to often in Abilene,” Smith said.
From dance performances to international food festivals, International Week offers immersive experiences that go beyond simple cultural appreciation.
“My hope is that students move from being spectators to engaging in intercultural dialogues,” Smith said. “We are all raised with biases, and the way to dismantle a stereotype or a bias is through relationships.”
Beyond the campus experience, Smith emphasized the real-world benefits of participating in cultural events.
“Employers value cultural competency and cross-cultural communication skills, both of which can be developed through active participation in these events,” she explained.
For students looking to get more involved, Smith has one simple suggestion: “Join ISF. International Student Fellowship is not just for international students. Several domestic students have joined, and they have access to announcements for events throughout the year that offer intercultural engagement opportunities.”
At its core, International Week is about creating a welcoming space for cultural exchange, and for Smith, it holds a special place in her heart.
“International Week has been a highlight of my career at Hardin-Simmons,” Smith said. “It feels like a gift. I wish my budget supported trips to each of these cultures to experience them firsthand in their land. But I am honored for the opportunity to experience aspects of many global cultures right here on campus.”
Through shared experiences, meaningful conversations, and a deeper understanding of different cultures, International Week continues to enrich the HSU community. There is so much to learn, and International Week is one of the best times to do just that.
Comments