October 29, 2003

International Education Week Focuses On Business, Trade

The International Programs office at Boise State University will celebrate International Education Week Nov. 17-21 with events and activities that emphasize greater global understanding through international education and exchange. Organizers hope to increase international and intercultural awareness among Boise State students, faculty and staff as well as local business leaders, teachers, state government staff and community members in general. This year’s theme — International Business and Trade: Enhancing International Education for Economic Recovery and Development — will emphasize the importance of cross-cultural communication skills and international experience to students who will enter an extremely competitive job market that highly prizes international experience. In today’s global economy, from local companies to multi-national conglomerates, businesses rely on employees who can effectively interact with partners throughout the world, workers who are aware of and experienced with cultural differences. Idaho’s economy depends on international business and trade as well as international tourism; therefore, International Education Week events will also highlight the importance of other nations and cultures to Idaho’s economic recovery and future growth. Events will include an opening by Boise State President Bob Kustra, a panel discussion by experts in international business education and international trade, and a cross-cultural communication skills workshop focusing on conducting business abroad. Other presentations will address travel health issues, the inclusion of Eastern European nations in the EU, promoting cultural awareness through children’s and young adult literature and many other topics. The week will also include the Ten Thousand Villages Sale, performances by Boise State international students highlighting their cultures, a panel discussion regarding study abroad experiences by Boise State students, foreign films, a session on teaching abroad for Boise State faculty, and an English as a Second Language conference. All events are free, open to the public and address a diverse audience. For more information, or to obtain a complete schedule of events, visit www.boisestate.edu/international, call 426-3652, e-mail internationalinfo@boisestate.edu or stop by the International Programs office, 1136 Euclid Ave., Boise. -30- Contact Sabine C. Klahr International Programs director 426-3652 Media Contact Sherry Squires communications and marketing 426-1563