Biology freshman Sparsha Acharya, left, and marketing junior Ishu Pokhrel laugh while putting food in a steamer during the International Food Fair on April 2, 2024, on the University Center mall.
UTA’s International Week returns to the campus this week, marking the 49th year of the university’s annual celebration of cultural diversity, according to the Office of International Education website.
Organized by the Global Engagement Department in collaboration with campus partners and student organizations, the weeklong celebration will feature a variety of cultural, social and educational events to bring fun and festive learning on campus.
Anviti Singh, Global Engagement student assistant, said International Week is designed to promote global awareness, celebrate the student body’s heritage and foster international and intercultural dialogue.
“It’s not just for international students, it’s like a bridge between domestic and international students,” she said.
The celebration of culture occurs every spring semester.
Below is a breakdown of the events scheduled for the week:
Taste of the World
In collaboration with Maverick Dining, “Taste of the World” will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every weekday except Wednesday at Connection Cafe.
International Food Fair
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Brazos Park will come alive with cuisines from around the world, featuring dishes from a variety of cultures prepared by student organizations.
GRADitude Glow Fest
From noon to 2 p.m. Thursday in the Bluebonnet Ballroom in the University Center, the GRADitude Glow Fest event will celebrate the journey, growth, community and resilience of graduating students. The event will feature food, entertainment and a lively atmosphere, with grad cords available on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the event page.
Global Grounds
Global Grounds will bring students together from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday in the Palo Duro Lounge at the University Center, offering them an opportunity to network with peers and explore campus resources while enjoying free tea, coffee and snacks.
International Gala Awards
Students are invited to an evening of cultural attire and dance from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday in the Bluebonnet Ballroom. The event will feature performances and an opportunity to showcase cultural identity while celebrating through food, music and dance.
Seminars
A Curricular Practical Training seminar will take place from 2 to 3 p.m. Wednesday in the Concho Room in the University Center, providing international students with information on F-1 visa work authorization.
Students can attend the Optional Practical Training seminar from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday in the Concho Room to learn about post-graduation employment and work authorization.
An H-1B seminar is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday via Microsoft Teams.
Study Abroad
The Study Abroad in South Korea event will take place from noon to 2 p.m. on Thursday in the San Saba Room in the University Center. Students can learn about study abroad opportunities and attend an informational session on programs in South Korea.
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