Cultural Diversity on Campus

As an international institute for higher education, Texas A&M International University is instilled with a certain level of responsibility to promote multicultural awareness on campus. With a diversity of international students, it is important to educate the entire student body on

different cultural perspectives. In order to encourage better relations among the international students and the rest of the student body, I believe it is important to continue promoting an interest in students to explore other cultures and their values.

Because TAMIU is located on a border city, which is a predominantly Hispanic city, students' are often left with a sense of cultural shock when they engage in interactions

with international students. In order to remedy this situation, students must be provided with the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and intercultural communication skills.

The purpose of attending a college or university should not only be to obtain a degree. I believe our college experience should be about developing not only our minds, but also our overall perspective on the world. Our society and technology are constantly evolving at a rapid

pace. As a result, people across the world are becoming more interconnected than ever. Thus, it is important that we acknowledge the need to become more aware and active in international affairs, as it will affect us all once we begin our careers.

TAMIU offers various opportunities for students to explore different languages and cultures through their Division of International Programs as well as the Language and Literature department who offers hybrid language courses. There are four units within the Division of

International Programs: Continuing Education; the International Language Institute; International

Student Services; and International Education. These offices serve international students, promote international awareness, and offer the campus and local community various education opportunities. TAMIU also offers students various opportunities to participate in the study abroad programs. All of these services help to reinforce the international title TAMIU holds, as well as

provides students with the opportunities to broaden their horizon and explore different cultures

and customs.

For more information on the Division of International Programs you may contact them at international@tamiu.edu, on the Hybrid Language courses you may contact Lisa Flores at

lflores@tamiu.edu, and for more information on the study abroad programs you may contact the Office of International Education at studyabroad@tamiu.edu