Connecting cultures all under the same roof
Linn-Benton is a community college, that strives to maintain an open door for students of multicultural backgrounds.
The Global Connections Club was started as a way to globalize the campus and connect not only international students to domestic, but to connect domestic students to international students to learn about cultures and gain a more worldly view.
“It's a global party, and gathering different people from different countries is a great chance for me to meet more people,” said Tianshu Li, a business management student.
Each term the Global Connections Club meets three times in varying locations. The location changes based on the room availability at the time of the meetings.
The advisor for the club is Kim Sullivan, international student coordinator. Another contact for the club is Christine Baker who works in international admissions. The student leader for the club is Li.
“I wanted to know more about American culture and to try something new,” said Li. “It's a great chance to talk with different people.”
Once a member of the Global Connections Club, you have the opportunity to learn about other cultures and teach others at the same time.
“Hopefully you will make some new friends too,” said Sullivan.
Since the Global Connections Club got its start in 2014, it has done activities such as a Chinese hot pot demonstration and hikes, and participated in college sponsored events such as College Night. The Global Connections Club has also attended a middle school Cultural Night week.
“This club is a great way to expand your cultural knowledge, and learn about the many cultures of our world,” said Sullivan.
The Global Connections Club will not meet over the summer because members travel back home; however, the club hopes to get back together in the fall. Sullivan hopes for a regular schedule next school year.
“We would love to see more active students,” said Sullivan.
Any student is welcome to come. Contact Sullivan or Baker for further information. Interested individuals will be added to the email list for updated information.
