On November 13th, 2023, the International Student Program (ISP) collaborated with the Study Abroad Team to kickoff International Education Week (IEW) and hosted the IEW Opening Ceremony. Some of the highlights included the employee appreciation award to honor a Skyline College employee who has made a significant difference to international student, the Study Abroad Panel where students provided insights into their experiences studying abroad, and the announcement of the winners of the Study Abroad Photo Contest. Lasheana Dilian Husni, an International Student from Indonesia, hosted the event, which was kicked off by Dr. Newin Orante, President of Skyline College. Subsequent opening speeches were delivered by Dr. Vinicio Lopez, Vice President of Instruction, and Zaid Ghori, Interim Dean of Global Learning Programs and Services.
Acting Director of Special International Programs, Alice Yang, continued the opening ceremony to announce the winners of the Study Abroad Photo Contest. Nine winners were announced across three categories: host country landscape/culture, SMCCCD Student(s)’ self-portrait, and Immersion (Interaction with local people).
Kelly Li, Program Services Coordinator of Study Abroad, moderated interviews with study abroad students during the student panel. Students who had studied abroad in various countries shared their fascinating experiences, including insights into the country’s culture, internship experiences, and advice for any students interested in studying abroad.
Another highlight of the ceremony was when English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Professor Erinn Struss was announced as the winner of the Faculty/Staff Appreciation Award. Each year, international students nominate professors or staff members for this award if they have positively impacted the lives of Skyline College’s international students. Unfortunately, Professor Struss had a class to teach and could not attend the event. However, she prepared a video of her thank-you speech which was presented.
The International Student Program is part of the Global Learning Programs and Services Division. ISP will continue to provide services and programs for international students as well as for the entire Skyline College community. If you are interested in learning more about future ISP programs and events, contact the ISP office at skyinternational@smccd.edu.
Article and photo by Lasheana Dilian Husni
