INTERNATIONAL RESOURCE PROGRAM

• International Resource Program Brochure (image1 | image2)
• International Resource Program Registration Form (link to form)

The purposes of this program are to give international students and visiting scholars at Central Michigan University an opportunity to visit Mt. Pleasant area schools, churches, and organizations to talk about their countries and their cultures, and to give area residents the opportunity to interact with students and scholars from all over the world.

The International Resource Program is an opportunity for both American and international students and visiting scholars to learn about different people and cultures, to realize how we are all interdependent, to improve cross cultural communication, and to develop a personal appreciation for cultural diversity. It is also a way of exploring the importance of cross-cultural understanding in the post cold war period. This is achieved through presentations, panel discussions, performances, and exhibits.

The International Resource Program provides a number of advantages for presenters and their audiences.

International student/visiting scholar participants are able to:

• see what an American classroom looks like, how it works, and learn about the American educational system;
• meet American school teachers, children, and exchange ideas and information with them;
• tell Mt. Pleasant residents about their country and culture;
• learn what Americans know and think about their countries, and perhaps correct some misconceptions;
• develop public speaking skills;
• gain new insight about some aspects of their own culture as they share it with others;
• learn to relate with different people.

American participants:

• have a chance to meet someone from a foreign country;
• learn from someone other than a teacher or a book about a certain country or region of the world;
• get first-hand information about the customs of a certain culture;
• hear a different language spoken by a native speaker;
• break down stereotypes of other cultures through direct interaction;
• have an opportunity to involve international resource persons in their classroom, church, or organization.

How Do International Students/Visiting Scholars Take Part in This Program ?

Students and scholars interested in serving as volunteer resource persons for this program should contact the Office of International Education.

How Do Individuals/Groups Request An International Visitor ?

Contact OIE at 989-774-4308.

Important Notes:

• International Resource Program volunteers do not need to have a car to participate. Transportation should be provided for the international student/scholar by the individual/group requesting a guest.
• This program requires commitment on the part of the volunteers. A volunteer may be asked to do several presentations at a school, church, or organization during a year.
• Presentations are always scheduled according to the volunteers academic schedule.

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