Celebrating Diversity

Celebrating Diversity

The Avila Community Joins Together to Explore New Cultures
 

        Thursday, September 20^th was a warm autumn day, full of excitement and international cuisine. During lunch, students from all over the world hosted the Fall Ethnic Food and Culture Celebration in the Marian Center dining room. The entire Avila community was welcomed to come and learn about the traditions and culture of these students while enjoying a diverse selection of cookery from around the globe.

For former Avila student Elena Elisina, this annual celebration was an important part of her experience in the United States. “That is such a great tradition. I used to take part in this Ethnic Festival, it was lots of fun!” Elisina said. After graduating with a degree in International Business, Elisina took her world class education and went on to work for the Central Bank of Russia.  

According to the Avila website, there are currently 160 international students attending the University. Countries include: Australia, Bahamas, Brazil, Cameroon, Peoples Republic of China, Croatia, Ethiopia, France, Gambia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Togo, United Kingdom, Vietnam and Zimbabwe. It is clear that Avila students and staff encourage and celebrate diversity.

Avila works hard to make international students feel welcome at the university. For students who are not fluent in English, the Intensive Language and Culture Program is a good starting point. In the program, students are taught the English they will need to be successful at any University in the United States. International students may also be enrolled in the undergraduate or masters programs while involved in the Intensive Language and Culture program.

As a part of the Intensive Language and Culture Program, Avila provides students with transportation from the airport when they arrive. The program consists of twenty hours of English as Second Language lessons each week which includes speaking, comprehending, reading, writing and grammar. ESL classes are taught at various levels to accommodate students just wanting to strengthen their English. The lessons are taught both through online simulations as well as one-on-one tutoring.

Another way in which Avila accommodates its international students is through the ISO or International Student Organization. The club is open to both international and non international students who would like to see a raised awareness, understanding and appreciation of multiple cultures at the University. For more information contact Bruce Inwards, ISO Advisor.

Three Avila students dance to some of Japan’s traditional music to draw attention to their booth. Left: Hiromi Uno, Middle: Shimon Saleurada, Right: Naoto Yokohama