The Office of Intercultural Relations develops and provides a wide variety of programs, events, information sessions, cultural celebrations, festivals, and public performances.
Experience America
OIR collaborates with the English Language Center to organize the "Experience America" series. This program is designed to provide an opportunity for international students to connect with Americans through exploration of topics and activities related to life, society, and culture in the USA. Successfully launched in Spring 2011, the series included: All About America, American Football, and American Cooking. The program has received a tremendous response from the ODU international community which has attracted a diverse group of ethnicities and ages, both undergraduate and graduate alike.
Global Family Cookout
Our community wide cookout revolves around good food, nice folks, and great fun! Activities involving food, fun, and games naturally foster a sense of community, and inclusiveness which is increasingly important for our students, faculty, and staff as well as their families. Fall 2010 was the inaugural event which welcomed over 600 Monarchs.
International Cafe
The intent of the International Café is to bring together and help bridge the gap between American and international students, faculty, and staff. The entire ODU community is encouraged to come and meet with each other while participants enjoy their coffee and refreshments. Each week, the Café features a 15-20 minute presentation which introduces an important current international issue, such as: education, politics, people, and countries & cultures. Our Spring 2011 International Café series included such topics as: The Turmoil in Egypt, Safety Issues for International Students, Hong Kong & Macau, and Turkey. OIR seeks to partner with international students, student organizations, offices, and departments to contribute by presenting various topics during the café hour. If you wish to be part of the program, please contact us to discuss in more detail.
