Movers and Shakers: RMC Celebrates International Education Week

News Story categories: Student Life
Three students pose indoors, with international flags displayed behind them. One wears a "Randolph Macon" t-shirt.

International Education Week (IEW) is celebrated nationwide every November, during which the Office of International Education partners with other departments, student organizations, and individuals who are interested in hosting or co-sponsoring activities and events. IEW is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences.

This year marks RMC’s 22nd International Education Week, with events from Nov. 17-21 following the theme “Movers and Shakers – Celebrating Music Around the World.”

A full calendar of this year’s IEW events is below.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17

From the French Protectorate to Today: The Power of the Arts in Cambodia Over the Last 125 Years

1–2 p.m., Dollar Tree Room

This presentation traces the relationship between the arts and power in Cambodia, beginning with the French Protectorate in the late 19th Century and moving through time to the present day. The talk will examine the blossoming of Cambodian popular culture following independence in the mid-20th Century, the disastrous impacts of the Khmer Rouge, and the resurgence of Khmer culture in the modern day.

Suzumebachi and fan craft

2–3 p.m., Brock Commons Patio

Experience a song and dance created and performed in Miyagi, Japan called ‘Suzume Odori’ (Sparrow Dance) and learn more about its origins from members of the Japanese Festival Music Team. Join the performance by crafting a fan to learn how to dance like a sparrow.

Public Domain Movie Night

3–4 p.m., McGraw-Page Library

Clips from Hollywood Revue (1929), Trance and Dance in Bali (1952), Walt Disney’s Silly Symphonies (1929), and various global musical pieces from the public domain will be playing by the fireplace.

Latin Music Demonstration

6–7 p.m., McGraw-Page Library

Join music professor Marlysse Simmons and special guest Rei Alvarez for a musical event featuring Latin Music.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18

International Zumba

11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Brock Center

Join the Office of International Education and RMC Wellness Coordinator Trista Blair for a special Zumba class.

Campfire Songs & S’mores

4:45–6:45 p.m., Brock Commons Firepit

Join the Study Abroad Ambassadors for a cozy evening.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19

A Taste of the World

12:45–1:45 p.m., Haley Hall

Come experience the diversity at the core of different cultures and sample a variety of foods and drinks from around the world while enjoying international tunes and great company.

Rainstick Craft Night

3–5 p.m., McGraw-Page Library

Create your own rainmaker! Supplies and snacks will be provided.

Semester Abroad Information Session

5:30–6 p.m., Haley Hall, Room 112

Whether you’re an avid traveler, or just mildly curious, this information session is for all students to learn about OIE’s semester abroad application process and how to research programs.

Global Jeopardy

6–7:30 p.m., Haley Hall, Room 112

Join the International Interest Group for a game of Jeopardy. The theme will be music from around the world from all periods of time, with a chance to win prizes and food.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20

Anime Music Across Japanese Eras

11:15 a.m.–1 p.m., Dollar Tree Room

Explore the evolution of anime music across the last three Japanese eras: Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa.

Holy Envy

5–6 p.m., Birdsong Hall, Dalton Family Dining Room

Join the Office of the Chaplain to hear others share what they admire in the religious traditions of their neighbors.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21

STEM Abroad? Yes, you can!

12–12:45 p.m., Copley, Room 133

Join the Office of International Education for a specialty session on semester or year-long study abroad programs that are ideal for STEM majors and minors.

Sip & Share – A Chai Welcome

3–4:30 p.m., Brock Commons Living Room

Come taste authentic spiced chai, snack on delicious treats, and catch up with your international friends.