York International (YI) hosted its 2018-19 Exchange Pre-Departure Orientation at the Founders Assembly Hall on April 24. The event was for York University students who are in the middle of preparing for their academic exchanges in Asia, Europe and the Americas.
The interactive half-day event was designed to equip students with the tools they will need to make their international education experience both academically and personally successful.
The orientation covered topics such as the responsibilities and expectations related to the academic exchange program, intercultural perspectives, travel logistics and risk management, as well as funding opportunities. Each topic covered represents an identified component of the student exchange experience. By gaining knowledge of these components, students are empowered to take ownership of their exchange. They also gain an understanding of the strong support network that is available to them through YI and York University.
Faculty of Education Professor Roopa Desai-Trilokekar facilitated the Go Global Workshop with the participation of the Global Ambassadors – a group of student leaders who have gone on exchange and internship and are currently supporting YI in promoting global opportunities for students. The intercultural perspectives segment of the pre-departure session focused on the nuances that come with being abroad and challenged student notions about travel. It was also designed to promote their reflections on what they can do to maximize their learning while abroad.
To learn more, email goglobal@yorku.ca.