International Day of Learning Held at ACMS
PICTURED: LWC student Airada Bricker gives a presentation about her native Thailand during International Day of Learning at Adair County Middle School last week. Sixteen of the international students from LWC took part in the day by teaching and expanding the student’s cultural knowledge. LWC currently has 100 students from 40 different countries in the ISP (International Student Program). 322 General John Adair Dr, Columbia, KY
Students at Adair County Middle School got a chance to learn about cultures from around the world last Thursday.
Lindsey Wilson College International Student Program (ISP) visited ACMS for International Day of Learning, a day set aside each year for middle school students to meet college students from other countries and learn more about different cultures and customs.
Adair County Middle School Principal Alma Rich was pleased with the event and what it brought to her students.
“We so appreciate the fact that the international students get to share with our students,” said Rich. “This is so important to our rural area where students are not typically exposed to various cultures.”
LWC Director of International Student Programs Sabine Eastham also finds that the event strengthens the experience of the international students who are studying in the US.
“Not only is it a great opportunity for our local Adair County students but it also gives our international students a sense of pride and belonging to be able to share about their home countries in this type of format,” said Eastham. “The students give presentations and spend time with the classes and even have lunch with them. It’s a great day for everyone involved.”
Eastham says that the international program at LWC has 100 students from 40 countries this semester but she expects that number to increase dramatically next fall. Because of this, there is a need for more local residents to become host families for the international students. Eastham points out the importance of host families in facilitating a smooth transition into American culture while the students are here studying in the U.S.
“Host families are what make our international students feel at home here in Columbia,” said Eastham. “They help with the adjustment not only to the US but also to life in south-central Kentucky. Students still live on campus but look forward to invitations for BBQ’s, celebrating, shopping and experiencing the beauty Kentucky has to offer with their host families. I find that both parties benefit greatly from the experience.”
If you are interested in learning more about the ISP or becoming a host parent or family, contact Sabine Eastham at eastham@lindsey.edu or call 270-384-8236.
Click here to learn more about the International Student Program at LWC.