Cultural Conversations from Around the Globe
Cultural Conversations engages VCU students with peers from international partner institutions in weekly guided gatherings via Zoom. Topics of conversation vary based on student interests and have included art, business, the environment, food, health, human rights, language, music and tourism. During the one-hour sessions, students speak in English or the language of the partner institution, allowing for authentic linguistic and intercultural communication practice. Currently, connections are with institutions in Japan, Mali, Mexico, Qatar and Vietnam with the goal of expanding offerings based on student interests. For VCU students interested in Education Abroad, Cultural Conversations can serve as the first step toward engaging internationally from home. Read more about student experiences in Cultural Conversations.
You may sign up for one, two, or all opportunities in a series. You may also travel with us to different countries as your schedule permits. We simply ask that you sign up in advance so we can give you the agenda for the specific days you sign up for.
The fall 2022 schedule is developing as student and partner institute interests are confirmed. Please check back periodically for updates or sign up to receive an email update when registering for any of the opportunities below.
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Current Workshop Dates/Times |
Theme |
Register |
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Cultural Conversations with Shimane University, Japan |
Wellness |
ID: 81759215287 |
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Cultural Conversations with La Salle University, Oaxaca, Mexico Sept. 12, 19, 26 |
Pop Culture |
ID: 82398465138 |
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Cultural Conversations with Kien Giang University, Vietnam and the English Practice Club, Bamako, Mali Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 8-9 a.m. EST, Thursday mornings (7 sessions) |
What's Your Point of View? |
ID: 84273447208 |
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Cultural Conversations with VCU Arts, Qatar Sept. 6, 20, 9-10 a.m. EST Tuesday mornings (5 sessions)
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Art, the World Cup, & Challenge 22 |
ID: 88082895780 |
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Connect through Traditional Music from Mexico Learn about traditional Mexican music and culture through a choir performance combined with visuals and dance. In a post-concert discussion, connect with students and faculty from Universidad La Salle, and explore possibilities for further engagement with our partner institution in southern Mexico. |
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Register in advance |
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Cultural Conversations with Ivanovo State Polytechnic University Every other Wednesday: 11-11:50 a.m. (EST) September 21, October 5, 19, November 2
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Travel |
ID: 87623546800 |
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Previous Workshops |
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Cultural Conversations: Connecting through Ramadan Theme: Connecting through Ramadan |
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Doha, Qatar: VCUArts Theme: Creative Expression |
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Matsue, Japan: Shimane University Theme: Intercultural Communication |
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Oaxaca, Mexico: La Salle University Theme: University Life, Entertainment, Traditions |
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Kien Giang University and Shimane University
Theme: Pop Culture |
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Bamako, Mali: Kien Giang University Theme: Language, History |
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Mali: English Practice Club, Bamako Main language(s) of conversations: English and French Impressions of the program:
"I am so very thankful for the online platforms and outlets. Without them, I simply would not be able to continue this educational journey. It is a real blessing and I thank you for being a huge part of that world! These conversations are often the highlight of my week, and my mind is continually in motion as I think about some of the “takeaways” from cross-cultural engagement..."
Amy Tetteron Major: Visual Arts/Multi-disciplinary Pathways to VCU Program participant "Participating in Cultural Conversations really enabled me to grow as a person and a global citizen. For most of my life, when first meeting people I’ve been an introvert, but with Cultural Conversations it really allowed me to push myself out of my comfort zone and cross those boundaries to try to grow in my ‘out-goingness.’ So many different topics were discussed and the beauty of it is that I was able to take in so many different perspectives that now when I am discussing different topics in class, with family members or friends I automatically don’t think of just one perspective anymore. I try to think of multiple viewpoints and actively try to put myself in other people’s shoes."
Gloria Hickey VCU Globe Majors: Criminal Justice and Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness |
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Japan: Shimane University (9 opportunities) Main language(s) of conversations: English (and some Japanese) |
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Qatar: VCU Arts Main languages of conversation: English (possibly Arabic) |
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Links to Review
- How to professionally cancel (in cases of extenuating circumstances)
- VCU Cultural Conversations reflection and attendance form (to be filled out at the end of EACH one-hour session)
- Article on the importance of reflecting on global learning goals
Questions?Please reach out. We would love to connect. |
Audrey Emiko Short Global Engagement Co-curricular Coordinator Global Education Office Virginia Commonwealth University 912 West Grace Street, 4129 Richmond, VA 23284 Learn more about the Global Education Office |