Indiana University Bloomington

Campus Link Newsletter

Spring 2012

IU Brings the World to Indiana

“The campus of Indiana University is not just in Bloomington, or even the state of Indiana; it encompasses the four corners of the globe.” –IU’s long-term (1937-1962) president, Herman B Wells.

College is a time of growth and exploration, and it’s difficult for today’s student to absorb everything that is available to them. Educational content is important, but educational context sets the stage. We cannot expect our children to retain every fact that’s taught (at least not past the final exam!), but we can expect them to remember concepts, and culture, and  communication skills. We should encourage them to try new things and seek to experience a broad range of activities and friends. The advantage to coming to a large institution like IU, is that it’s all right here.

Today’s education must be global in order for the U.S. to remain a successful world citizen. IU currently enrolls almost 6,000 international students, from over 130 different countries. Representing twelve percent of the student body, international students are integrated throughout the classrooms, the dorms, and student activities. Just as they are learning about US culture, they are sharing their own. They bring us their languages, their music, their foods, their dress, their energy and their style of thought. This rich culture base, properly absorbed, will broaden the skill base of all students. Ideally, domestic students will take advantage of opportunities to study abroad. If they can’t, or don’t, IU brings the world to them.

In addition to classroom camaraderie, many activities are offered where international students can share their culture. The biggest event of the year is the World’s Fare, where international student groups prepare cultural booths, serve food typical of their home country, and perform traditional dances or songs in a judged talent show. Weekly country-themed coffee hours, the celebration of home country holidays, fashion shows, and language partners are all open and anxious for domestic student participation. IU is proud to be able to offer global diversity to all students.

IU World's Fare