International Student Society Celebrates International Education Week

Fernanda Ferreira ’09 

Fernanda welcomed the audience of students and faculty members and discussed the purpose of International Education Week: “…to promote mutual respect and understanding for people around the world.” Fernanda invited the audience to participate in a cultural quiz to start the event. Professor Colvin followed Fernanda and discussed developments and opportunities for students in the Study Abroad program at MMC. Krzysztof Zaba, director of international recruitment, was present at the event to aid in the student presentations. 


Elektra Yao ’09 

Elektra Yao ’09, a communication arts major, spoke about her various experiences with Ivorian, Italian and French culture. Her father is from Cote d’Ivoire, her mother is Italian, and she attended Lycee Francaise de New York. “It is important to understand other people and cultures to further enrich the human experience,” said Yao. “I have enjoyed and appreciated being accepted by a range of different cultures.” 


Apicha Simaratana 

Apicha Simaratana, discussed his experiences growing up in Thailand, moving to England and playing rugby, and adjusting to life in New York City. Finally, Fernanda discussed democracy, diversity, food, and major cities and states, including her home of Minas Gerais, in Brazil. She spoke about notable Brazilians, including Oscar Niemayer, an architect who helped design the United Nations and about her plans of working in New York City after graduation. 

International Education Week is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education and spans November 17 – 21, 2008. It celebrates the benefits of international education and promotes programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract foreigners to study, learn, and exchange experiences in the United States.

Published: December 03, 2008