As a university that embraces international learning, Southwest Minnesota State University’s ISO (International Student Organization) club and other clubs celebrated International Education Week, which began on Nov. 12, with two events.
International Education Week celebrates the benefits of international learning around the world and is promoted by the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Education.
The first event, held on Nov. 10, was the fourth annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Sale and Flea Market.
With around 50 vendors in attendance, this event was an opportunity for students, faculty, and other community members to try foods and buy crafts from the home countries of international students.
The eighth annual International Arts Festival, held on Nov. 15, was the finale to the celebration of international education.
This festival is held for students who display the culture of their home countries.
“This is an event presented by the International Student Organization. The Muslim Student Organization, the Hmong Student Organization and UGLYS participated in the fashion show.
Ajeev Shah, our current graduate assistant, worked very hard to pull this event together,” Sandy Nelson, ISO club advisor, said.
Many people help in the planning and participation of this event, with a total of 121 students from 23 different countries.
“It brings the students together to share their different cultures and get to know each other better,” Nelson said.
All students either performed a dance or song number that represented each different country. A fashion show and silent auction were also part of the event.