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Throughout the course of the year, the Office of International Student Activities offers a broad range of activities for WIU's international community. Below is a list of some of the regularly scheduled events and information on how to participate:  Conversation Partners Conversation Partners is a program where international students are paired with U.S. WIU students for conversational purposes. Conversation Partners are expected to commit to meeting at least once a week for the duration of the semester. Conversation Partners represents a wonderful cross-cultural sharing opportunity with mutual benefits for both the US and international students. To apply to be a Conversation Partner, please click on the appropriate link below. Please note, WESL students must be in the University Preparation level in order to participate. Conversation Partner application for international students Conversation Partner application for US students
 Cultural Café Cultural Café shines a spotlight on the different that countries WIU students come from. Three times each semester, a student gives a presentation on or about their country over a weekday lunch hour. Authentic cuisine from the country being presented is served to all those in attendance, as well. Cultural Cafes are a great opportunity for international students to share information on their home country’s culture and a great chance for the campus community to learn about different countries and cuisines of the world. Cultural Cafe presenters are not limited strictly to international students, though. Anyone with an expertise on a country or culture other than the US is welcome to present. If you would like to be a Cultural Café presenter, please contact CIS-Activities@wiu.edu.  World Café Coffee Hours World Café Coffee Hours are low-key, social events that are centered upon a global issue theme. Anyone interested in sharing their expertise on a global issue is welcome to host a Coffee Hour. Past Coffee Hour themes have been illegal immigration,organic food, Japan, and minority health issues. Free refreshments are served and everyone from the campus and community are welcome. Coffee Hours are a great chance to meet others from the area who have an interest in global affairs.  Orientation Volunteers The week before every semester begins, a New International Student Orientation is held. The orientation is a series of events designed to get new international students acclimated to the campus and community. Volunteers are needed to accompany new students with the many questions and tasks they have when new to campus. Orientation volunteers provide a great service to the campus and community, as well as they get to participate in the many fun orientation activities. Volunteering for orientation is a great chance to meet people from all around the world.  Student Activities Committee We are interested in what our international students have to say about the programming offered to them. The International Student Activities Committee is a group that does just that. The committee is instrumental in planning meaningful, enjoyable, and valuable experiences for the WIU international community. New members of the committee are welcome at any time! 
Organized Trips The Office of International Student Activities regularly plans trips for international students to get out and experience U.S. culture. Trips in the past have included St. Louis, Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria. Trips are only available to currently enrolled students, so check your email for announcements regarding these fun trips. Other activities The programs listed above are just a few of the many things offered to the WIU international community. We are always interested in planning and hosting new worthwhile events. If you have any ideas or suggestions, feel free to contact the International Student Activities office at CIS-Activities@wiu.edu or(309)298-2485.
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