College of Engineering Celebrates International Education Week Nov. 15-19

The College of Engineering will hold several events this week to recognize and celebrate International Education Week, which highlights the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.

A joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education, International Education Week promotes programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn and exchange experiences.

Associate Dean for Academics Kevin Hall referenced author Thomas Friedman's book analyzing globalization in reflecting on the importance of international exchange.

"Thomas Friedman told us in 2005 that 'the world is flat.' This truth is particularly relevant in the engineering sphere. The challenges we face — including climate change, clean water, food supply and distribution, and energy demands (among others) — are global challenges that require global solutions," Hall said. "The University of Arkansas' international education and exchange programs are designed to both 'bring the world to us' and to 'take our students and scholars to the world.' This interchange of thought, culture and technology allows us to develop and implement solutions which truly serve all people."

The College of Engineering's International Engineering Program and International Experiences program offer students study-abroad options.

All are welcome to join the College of Engineering activities:

Monday, Nov. 15

Dorcas Akorlor, a graduate student studying operations management, will host a cultural "pop up" about Ghanaian "day names." Stop by to learn more about Ghanaian culture and find out traits the culture associates with the day you were born.

• When: 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• Where: Top of ramp, Bell Engineering Center
• Contact: Dorcas Akorlor Graham, dakorlor@uark.edu

Tuesday, Nov. 16

The College of Engineering Academic Coaches want to celebrate playing well as an important component of studying hard. To this end, they will spend part of the afternoon building with Legos, which means "play well" in Danish, and share tips on how to finish the semester strong.

• When: 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Where: Connections Lounge, Arkansas Union

Thursday, Nov. 17

The Department of Industrial Engineering will recognize its international graduate students with a pie reception.

• When: 1 p.m.
• Where: Imhoff Lounge, Bell Engineering Center, fourth floor

Thursday, Nov. 17

The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will celebrate International Education Week with fellowship and cookies.

• When and where: 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Engineering Research Center room 3211
• When and where: 2:30 to 4 p.m., top of ramp, Bell Engineering Center