This Fall semester, students from diverse countries came together through IVECA’s virtual classroom, igniting a rich exchange of cultural knowledge and personal stories. Before starting their main group projects, students have been engaged with each other by introducing themselves to their global peers, reflecting a deep enthusiasm for intercultural learning. Their excitement is noticeable, not only for the prospect of learning about new cultures but for the opportunity to form meaningful connections.
Students shared their unique cultural insights through introductions, sparking curiosity and bridging geographical divides. As part of their engagement, they exchanged recommendations for books, video games, movies, and cultural programs, deepening the intercultural dialogue and overall growth. A Chinese student shared, “It's truly an honor to be here, and I am looking forward to connecting with everyone and contributing to our collective growth.” Similarly, a Korean student reflected, “I am very happy to connect with you through the IVECA program, and it is a pleasure to get to know you. I think you are curious about Korea and us, and I am also very curious about you, Indian culture, and the country itself. We hope that this program will be a valuable experience where you can share each other's cultures and gain a broader perspective on the world."
Indian students also expressed their eagerness to explore beyond their cultural boundaries. One student shared, “I am excited to embark on this journey with IVECA, eager to explore, grow, and discover. With an open heart and a curious mind, I look forward to enriching experiences and meaningful connections that will shape our time together.”
Another layer of cultural exchange unfolded through media and storytelling. A Korean student discussed their experience with Indian culture, saying, “I've had a few experiences with Indian culture. I loved watching the movie Three Idiots, and recently, I watched a Korean program about traveling in India, which was really interesting. I would love it if you could tell me more about India! I’m excited to share our cultures with each other, and I can’t wait to meet you soon.”
While highlighting the students’ interest in each other's cultures, this exchange underscored the power of media in fostering a deeper understanding of different lifestyles and traditions. Mexican students shared pictures and videos of Día de Muertos, a celebration that honors the memory of deceased loved ones with vibrant altars, colorful decorations, and traditional foods. Meanwhile, American students shared their experiences with Halloween, showcasing the festive spirit of this annual celebration. Through these exchanges, students could explore similarities and differences in their seasonal traditions, building connections and broadening their appreciation of global customs.
By stepping into each other’s cultural worlds throughout this ongoing fall semester, students have gained not only knowledge but a newfound respect for diverse viewpoints and the joy of learning together, transcending borders. This experience demonstrates the meaningful impact of intercultural exchange in guiding students toward building global citizenship, instilling a sense of interconnectedness and shared human values.