by Claire Miller
The first week of classes at Georgia State University was filled with campus-wide activities designed to bring together students from different academic disciplines and introduce them to life at GSU.
For the College of Education, the beginning of the semester also meant orienting international visitors to the college through its Welcome Luncheon for International Scholars and Students on Aug. 23.
Coordinated by the COE Office of International Programs, the biannual welcome luncheon also introduces international visitors to COE faculty and staff and representatives from GSU's Office of International Affairs.
"It's interesting to see all the cultures represented on campus," said Line Jonassen, an exchange student from Denmark's VIA University College. "I'm excited about exploring the city and the schools here."
In addition to students from Denmark, the college has exchange students from Norway, Pakistan, South Korea and Switzerland and visiting scholars from China and South Korea here this semester.
Paul Alberto, COE interim dean, said he's excited to see international visitors collaborating with students and faculty in the college as they work toward finding the best ways to teach. He also encouraged the international visitors to round out their trip abroad by exploring the city of Atlanta and the experiences it has to offer.
"We are delighted that you decided to come to Georgia State because we are in a very exciting city," Alberto told guests at the luncheon. "While you are here, we want to make sure you get out and about. There’s so much here in Atlanta for you to see and do."
Catharina Chang, COE director of international programs, said the luncheon is one way the college builds relationships with students and universities in these countries and others.
"Having international students and scholars attend COE courses and interact with COE faculty, staff and students is essential as we strive to enhance the global competencies of our GSU community," Chang said. "We want to welcome our international scholars and students with open arms and open minds."
For more information about the college's international programs, visit http://education.gsu.edu/international.
