Cultural Conversations
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 2021 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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Vietnam: Kien Giang University (6 opportunities) Thursdays, Dec. 9, 16, 2021; Jan. 6, 13, 20 and February 10, 2022
Main language(s) of conversations: English (and some Vietnamese) |
Tourism |
SIGN UP Zoom access |
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Previous Workshops | ||
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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 |
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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 coversation: 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 |