What is the International Interchange all about? It’s about getting back to the basics: talking face-to-face about life with peers born stateside and abroad and learning about their life experiences and perspectives.
Here is what past participants have said about the International Interchange:
What have you enjoyed about the International Interchange?
“I love meeting people from different backgrounds and seeing life from their point of view; international interchange is all about that. I enjoyed that we could discuss any topic and have different opinions about it while at the same time feeling heard, welcome, and respected.”
“It’s nice to have a place where I can talk about important topics with others, and everyone brings their own ideas to the table. I love to hear other people’s perspectives on life; it’s enlightening.”
“I’ve enjoyed the international interchange partly because it’s a low-pressure way of talking with peers. The discussions are fun and there’s a nice atmosphere.”
“What I enjoyed about the International Interchange is the small community of people from diverse cultures and backgrounds where we can all share our thoughts and learn from one another.”
“I always appreciate when people from different backgrounds can get together and have a meaningful, open conversation. The International Interchange meetings provide a great space for this. Whether we’re discussing a deeper topic or just talking about our pets, we have a lot of fun. And we get to eat some great snacks!”
How has the International Interchange benefitted you and what have you learned through the conversations?
“It is a great place to meet students with different backgrounds and learn about their cultures. It is also an excellent way to improve oneself. Curiosity is encouraged in every meeting. Hearing other people’s stories makes me think about the life lessons I have learned. Also, learn from other students’ experiences.”
“I feel a genuine connection with the regular attendees. The questions we’re asked are all looking for your opinion on life and how others interact with the world, and that opens everyone to have a conversation that goes beyond small talk. I’ve taken away many lessons about priorities, and how priorities are different depending on what you’ve been through and where you come from.”
“The international interchange has benefited me in being more comfortable in group discussions. For what I’ve learned is mostly about experiences from others in the group.”
“The different topics and conversations that we have are always really interesting. They help me reflect on my thoughts even more, and listening to everyone else’s opinion broadens my perspective on life.”
“I’ve never traveled very far outside the northeastern United States, let alone outside the country. So I love to hear travel stories and learn about different cultures, making notes of where I might want to travel when I get the chance! I’m especially interested in learning about languages and religions. I think it’s really important that we always work to broaden our horizons and find out as much about our world as we can.”
Fall 2024 Meetings will be held in CAM 201 on the following Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 11:50 a.m.:
- Sep 17
- Oct 8
- Oct 22
- Nov 12
- Dec 3
- Dec 10
For more information contact Professor Myriam Stanton at stantonme@sunybroome.edu
If you need accommodations to participate in this event, please contact the Accessibility Resources Office at aro@sunybroome.edu or 607-778-5150 to discuss your needs ASAP.
Submitted by: Myriam Stanton
Tags: Diversity
