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.

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.

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.

Join International Programs for a festive Fall Break Meal on November 24, welcoming community members and international students for this shared meal. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (CST), attendees can enjoy a traditional holiday feast featuring turkey, vegetarian options, and classic sides at Old Brick. Space is limited, so participants are required to register for their preferred time slot.

From hosting emerging scholars in genetics and public health to strengthening connections in Italy, Austria, and Kosovo, Dean Ganim shares highlights from a month rich in international collaboration.

When Ethan Wattleworth was a child, he received a life-saving stem cell donation from Hannes Weissensteiner, who lived in Germany at the time and was a match. After starting CIMBA, the Tippie College of Business’ study abroad program in Italy, Wattleworth was able to meet Weissensteiner for the first time.

The lectures will explore Korean memory, identity, and representation with the first looking at how ecology and history intertwine in Jeju’s Giving Forest, and the second investigating how North Korean refugee authors challenge dominant narratives through fiction.

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.

As part of the University of Iowa’s 2025 International Education Month, the new program “Glocal at Iowa: Me – Iowa – the World” will feature five student speakers sharing their experiences through fast-paced Pecha Kucha presentations that highlight the connections between global and local perspectives.

Drawing on three decades of global experience, Byrne will explore how private enterprise and innovation are transforming humanitarian aid amid declining government support. Hosted by International Programs, the event highlights Iowa’s leadership in fostering dialogue on global engagement, adaptability, and the future of international development.

Join the University of Iowa for the 2025 Multicultural Showcase on Friday, November 14, at 7 p.m. in the Iowa Memorial Union. The event highlights diverse cultures through live performances, food, and interactive activities hosted by student organizations and university departments. Organized by OASIS in collaboration with International Programs.

After studying abroad three times, UI student Sean Keene launched 'Around the World in 80 Stays,' a podcast that shares stories from fellow Hawkeyes who have already taken the leap—and brought back insights to help others do the same.