Mattison Boveri is a junior currently studying abroad in Thailand through a fully funded scholarship from the U.S. State Department. Her weekly observations will be posted in her column in The Forest Scout, “Half the World Away.”

From November 13-17, 2017 is International Education Week. This is a chance to promote and publicize international education and exchange worldwide. Both the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Education collaborate to advocate for programs that engage citizens in a global community of studying, learning, and exchanging experiences.

Since I am currently participating in a U.S. State Department sponsored study abroad program (YES, abroad), I am attending a public Thai school, living with a host family, and breathing international education every second of everyday. However, there are many ways tocelebrate and participate in IEW without moving half way around the
world.

This week is about commemorating diversity and driving curiosity to learn more about the world we live in. Some easy ways you can engage in IEW is to cook a new cultural cuisine, meet or reconnect with an international friend, or read an article about another part of the world.

Why it international education important? In todays world, conflict stems from misunderstanding. Exchange exists to bring cultures together and spread peace through understanding. Stepping outside of your comfort zone to learn about another culture is a step towards global unity and harmony.

One of my favorite moments of my exchange so far was during the Loy Krathong festival preparations. In the classroom, my friends were teaching me how to make a krathong as another classmate approached me. She asked if I could help her fold the banana leaf for the krathong. At first, I looked at her like she was crazy! Why would she ask me?! All my other classmates were seasoned pros! They could make a krathong with their eyes closed and I expected she could too. I laughed a little and then realized she was genuinely confused. She then explained that she is Muslim therefore she had never participated in this Buddhist festival.

About 95% of Thailand is Buddhist therefore the religion is closely affiliated with all aspects of daily life. I had falsely assumed that all my classmates were Buddhist but after digging deeper have realized that there is more diversity than what meets the eye.

Thailand is known for its spicy cuisine, Buddhist temples, and common appearance among locals. If you are a foreigner, you probably stick out like a sore thumb. What I have come to appreciate, and view as unique, to the United States is that it truly is a melting pot. It is common to find a Mexican, Japanese, and Italian restaurant next to each other on the street. America is home to numerous synagogues, mosques, and churches. Additionally, if one of my Thai friends or host family members went to the United States they would fit in seamlessly.

I am a strong advocate for studying abroad, but if it is not in your cards than don’t capitulate this International Education Week. Take advantage of the diversity in your own backyard and learn about other peoples culture while sharing your own. Happy International Education Week!