Each November, the University of Iowa celebrates the many ways international education and exchange opportunities prepare citizens for community building in both national and international settings.
At the University of Iowa, we are #GrowingGlobalHawks through our commitment to all students in their growth, learning, networking, and expansion of knowledge and capacity for what’s new. We hope this month provides space and opportunities for the greater campus community to participate and engage in growing as global Hawks.
International Education Month Events
BGC: Study Abroad
Monday, November 2, 2026 3:00pm to 4:00pm
Study abroad is a valuable opportunity for UI undergraduate students to gain new perspectives and skills to apply in our global workplace.
Glocal at Iowa: Me – Iowa – the World
Friday, November 6, 2026 11:30am to 1:00pm
Using the fast-paced and visually engaging Pecha Kucha format, meaning “chit-chat” in Japanese, five student speakers will share their most meaningful “glocal” experiences in approximately six-minute presentations composed of 20 timed slides.
Free Coffee Hour: Meet with Dean Ganim
Friday, November 6, 2026 1:30pm to 2:30pm
Join us for a free coffee and a welcoming conversation with Russ Ganim, dean of International Programs. Meet other international students, scholars, and those from the larger campus community, learn more about the University of Iowa's global community, and share what has helped you succeed and feel at home on campus. Whether you're new to Iowa or returning for another year, we'd love to see you there!
EAC: Story Stitch
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 10:00am to 11:30am
In this interactive session, we will engage in the Story Stitch activity to learn about each other through the stories shared and conversations ignited.
BGC/Career Connector: Supporting the Career Development of International Students
Tuesday, November 17, 2026 12:00pm to 1:00pm
In this two-part interactive class, participants will explore the four intercultural conflict styles using the Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory (ICS).
Food Around the World
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 2:30pm to 3:00pm
The Food Studies Group (FSG), an International Programs Affinity Group, will host Food Around the World on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Culture Bites Café (Room 120, Phillips Hall).
Free Coffee Hour: Shrinky Dinks Fall Craft
Friday, November 20, 2026 1:30pm to 2:30pm
Enjoy a free coffee while exploring a craft that many people in the Midwest grew up making. Create your own Shrinky Dinks, watch your artwork transform as it shrinks, and connect with fellow students and scholars through creativity and conversation.
IEM in the News
Food Studies Group hosts “Food Around the World” during International Education Month
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Global Student Award recipient Cynthia Okafor advances global education through mentoring
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Cynthia Okafor, a PhD candidate in pharmaceutics from Agulu, Nigeria, and recipient of a 2025 Global Student Award, embodies how mentorship and community can elevate international education.
Global Student Award recipient Leila Assadi promotes international understanding through campus leadership
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
University of Iowa student Leila Assadi, a double major in economics and political science and recipient of a 2025 Global Student Award, embodies what it means to be a globally minded Hawkeye.
Announcing the 2025 Global Student Award winners
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
The Global Student Award recognizes one undergraduate and one graduate student who are leaders deeply engaged in international education on campus or abroad. The 2025 winners are Leila Assadi and Cynthia Okafor.
Food Studies Group debuts with “Food Around the World” event during International Education Month
Friday, October 17, 2025
The Food Studies Group, a new initiative within International Programs, will host its debut event, Food Around the World, which will explore global cultures through food and conversation. Faculty speakers will highlight how cuisine connects people across borders, fostering curiosity and international understanding.