International Education Week

Written by Paula Colaso – 3A Speech Communications and Business 

On my first co-op work term, I had the great opportunity to work for Alumni Relations on international projects and events for our worldwide chapters. It was an eye opening experience that really pushed me towards further international work. The stats really speak for themselves, we have over 15,000 alumni living in over 140 countries in the world and they want to stay connected with the University of Waterloo. One of the projects I worked on was the "International Reunions" that were hosted in Hong Kong and Singapore, and it was neat to see how many Alumni engaged with us!

I am now on my second co-op work term at Waterloo International working as a Marketing and Communications Associate. I have the ability to come into work every day and work on projects that have a direct effect on the Global Prominence & Internationalization theme of the University’s Strategic Plan.

One of the big projects I am working on here at Waterloo International is “International Education Week (IEW): Celebrating Canada’s Engagement with the World.” This week (Nov 17^th – 21^st) the University of Waterloo is joining over 100 countries to celebrate international students, promote our mobility programs and further the internationalization goals of the University. IEW showcases the significant contribution that international education makes to our social, economic, and cultural well-being and supports Canada’s ongoing efforts to engage on the international stage.

The work that I do for Waterloo International is so tightly correlated to the things I am learning in school, from the ground up I got to work on a marketing action plan and bring in campus wide awareness pieces like the buttons that say “Hello” in different languages.

It has been a really unique experience to lead a campus wide initiative that connected over 30 campus partners and is hosting over 40 exceptional events. We have everything from mobility information sessions for students, a languages fair, meals with an international flavour being offered in residence, and even Muay Thai athletics sessions for free. We really tried to host an array of events that catered to every audience and I can honestly say there is something for everyone!

So far we hosted a Women’s Hockey Game vs. Team China (won 4-0, picture above) and a screening of Wadjda at the Princess Cinema. I encourage all alumni in the area to come out to the rest of the events happening this week, especially the Where in the world!?! Photo contest in the Tatham Centre on Thursday, and the Balinese Gamelan Concert on Saturday! Both events are free of charge and open to the entire community!

Being able to work for the University on a co-op term has really opened my eyes, not only to the opportunities available to me internationally, but how international our campus really is. Within the confines of ring road there is a lot going on, but beyond is where I see myself making a difference in 4 years, and I plan to always stay connected with UWaterloo because I have this new found appreciation for the institution that I call home!