The Runner | KPU hosts International Focus Week

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Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Study Abroad program will be hosting International Focus Week from Nov. 20 to 24 at the Surrey and Richmond campuses. 

The Study Abroad program gives KPU students the chance to earn credits towards their degree in a different country through exchange semesters, field schools, summer schools, and work abroad trips. The program also allows students to take part in virtual internships and learn about topics through a different lens. 

International Focus Week will offer different events students can attend throughout the week. 

“International Focus Week (IFW) provides an opportunity for students, staff and faculty to celebrate and learn about global cultures,” Sarah Garcia, manager of international student engagement and transitions at KPU, wrote in an email statement to The Runner. 

The Global Engagement Fair will take place at the Surrey campus in the Spruce Atrium, where booths will be set up featuring different countries who are part of the study abroad program, on Nov. 23. 

The fair, which has been running since 2010, will take place from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and include tea, snacks, dancing, and prizes. Students from KPU who were involved in the Study Abroad program in past years, as well as students representing that country will also be in attendance.  

Students will also have the opportunity to use a virtual reality (VR) headset on Nov. 21 at the Richmond campus and on Nov. 23 at the Surrey campus. 

“Students can enjoy exploring the world through VR, learning about different countries through the country spot light,” Garcia wrote. 

“[T]hey can check out books from around the world at the library, take in dance performances from around the world, enjoy some treats as part of our winter giveaway, and of course explore study abroad opportunities.” 

Study Abroad is planning to hold their next field school trip in Barcelona, Spain. From April 24 to May 9, KPU students will travel to Barcelona and visit cultural landmarks such as the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, Calatrava tower, and the Barcelina Pavilion, as well as take part in walking tours throughout the city.  

All students are able to register for this field school trip, or “DESN 3100 – Design Field School,” as long as they have completed 45 credits of 1100-level courses or higher. 

This year, field school courses were offered in Paris, New York City, Cartagena, Colombia, and the Amazon Rainforest. 

Applications for summer 2024 school trips are still being developed, but KPU business students will have the opportunity to study in Germany or Switzerland. 

“This week highlights intercultural learning, global connections, and the available international exchange programs for students and Faculty,” Garcia wrote. 

“We hope that students are able to make connections, learn and have fun celebrating our international community and global learning,” Garcia wrote. 

For more information on International Focus week, visit https://www.kpu.ca/ifw2023. To learn more about study abroad opportunities, head to KPU’s website.