The success of a living-learning program depends as much on what happens outside the classroom as what happens inside it. We see these activities as falling into three categories: “Meeting the World at Home”—experiences that take advantage of our proximity to nation's capital by visiting relevant internationally-oriented organizations (World Bank, Human Rights Watch International, Embassies, U.S. Institute of Peace), and bringing prominent speakers to campus; “Building our International Community”—experiences that foster bonds among the participants and that reach out to the campus community through cultural and social programming and special events; and “Global Communities”—activities that strengthen the ties among Global Communities members.
Here is a partial list of recent Global Communities events and programs:
- Global Foods field trip to Polyface Farm in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia (as featured in the documentary, Food Inc.
- Tour of the new U.S. Institute of Peace followed by presentations from notable researchers
- Visit to the Embassy of India and meeting with diplomatic staff
- Viewing of the exhibition, “What’s Cooking, Uncle Sam?” at the National Archives
- Field Trip to the Capitol Building with foreign relations briefing from a policy researcher from the Congressional Research Service
- Attendance at the Studio Theatre's performance of "The Golden Dragon," a play exploring globalization and the immigrant experience
All Global Communities participants are expected to demonstrate a commitment to the campus community. One way of doing this is by actively serving on student committees that organize Global Communties events and programming. Students should expect to attend meetings and contribute 15-20 hours per semester to helping their committee.
Cultural Programming
Students are responsible for designing and implementing events that highlight different cultures. These include an International Dinner in the fall, and Cultural Explosion in the spring, in addition to other events that take advantage of the cultural diversity of our campus and of the Washington, DC area community.
Film and Music
Students organize 3-4 international movie nights each semester. The committee also suggests and/or organizes musical events, both on- and off-campus.
Global Ambassadors
Students staff the Global Communities outreach table for various events, including the First Look Fair, Study Abroad Fair, and Maryland Day. They will be expected to share their experiences with students, parents, faculty, and staff. They may help with the admissions process, take photographs at events, and update portions of the Global Communities website.
Exchange Student Welcome
Students plan events and activities that engage Global Communities' international exchange student population. Recent events have included a Welcome Party, an ice-skating outing, and a Culture Share reception.
Athletics and Recreation
Students organize athletic and other games, including intramural sports, hiking trips, game nights, cricket matches, and opportunities to attend games together.
