INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS FORGE LINKS ALL OVER THE WORLD FOR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY

Southeast Missouri State University has just completed its celebration of International Week. The observance offers a wonderful opportunity for foreign students to share their customs and cultures.

One of the highlights of the week was a portrayal of an Indian Hindu wedding ceremony Friday night. It was a great opportunity to witness a family milestone in another culture.

A number of other fascinating activities were sponsored during the past week, including a sampling of international food and entertainment, a Germanfest, a demonstration of Japanese business practices and a tea ceremony.

Southeast has hundreds of international students representing dozens of different countries. It's good to see the program is flourishing with a renewed emphasis on bringing international students to campus. The university also reaches out with programs and offerings to other countries.

The presence of international students makes the experience for all richer in that it expands the horizons of the campus to the world. The International Week is also a great way for the community to learn more about other cultures and about the students who are pursuing degrees at Southeast.

With today's technology and the Internet, it seems though the world is shrinking. More local businesses and individuals are linking up with colleagues and customers across the globe. That's why it's important that Southeast maintain and nourish its programs for international students and businesses.