Global Programs Launches New ‘Talk About’ Event Series for International Students

in Global Matters
October 7th, 2021

More than 1,000 students registered for the eight Talk About events that ran last year

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and its many challenges, Global Programs has been striving to meet the ever-evolving needs of international students. Like the pandemic’s lasting effects felt by so many, students’ needs have evolved as we collectively respond to the twists and turns of the pandemic.

International students have encountered myriad obstacles – from visa challenges to travel bans to online courses in different time zones, to name just a few. Amid these complications, Global Programs saw an opportunity to develop a new way for international students to come together and get access to resources alongside a community of international classmates, albeit virtually. The event series Talk About was born.

“The concept for Talk About was to create a platform for international students where they feel comfortable to come together to collaborate, meet other people, share ideas, and help create a greater sense of community at BU,” says Kamelia Turcotte, Assistant Director of International Student Initiatives. “Event topics are largely informed and chosen by international students. They are involved with the events from conception to completion to help ensure that topics resonate and meet the needs of the international student community.”

Turcotte is no stranger to the challenges that international students can face, even without a global pandemic looming. She came to the U.S. as an international student from Bulgaria and remembers what it feels like to complete one’s education away from their home country.

“As a former international student from Europe who also studied abroad in Asia, I know what it means to find my way in a new place, and all the excitement and challenges that come with this transition,” she says. “Our goal with the Talk About series was to, in collaboration with campus partners, ensure international students have a successful academic and social experience at BU. It is so rewarding to see them thrive in the university community and beyond.”

The 2020-21 Talk About event series generated more than 1,000 student sign-ups from its eight events that ran from September to February. Nine campus partners, ranging from Student Activities Office, to Student Health Services, to Alumni & Friends, shared resources and recommendations for international students on how to adjust to LfA, engage with the BU community, manage societal and cultural changes, normalize experiences related to COVID-19, and find employment in and outside of the U.S.

On the docket for fall 2021, Turcotte has four virtual Talk About events planned:

  • International Students and Academic Success: September 7 at 4 p.m. ET
    Hosted in collaboration with the Education Resource Center, this event discussed strategies for academic success in the transition to in-person learning.
  • What You Really Need to Know: September 27 at 5 p.m. ET
    The event featured a panel of upper-class international students, sharing what incoming students need to know from the perspective of a peer. Topics included academic opportunities, campus life, student organizations, employment, and adjusting to life at BU.
  • International Students & Safety: October 7 at 4 p.m. ET
    This discussion will help students learn when they should call for emergency help and how to avoid scams targeting international students. Chief Kelly A. Nee, Executive Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police will present.
  • Networking and Employment in the U.S. – November 4 at 1 p.m. ET
    Representatives from the Center for Career Development and the International Students and Scholars Office will discuss services and resources available to international students. A panel of international BU alumni will share their experiences and recommendations for successfully obtaining employment.

If you have ideas or feedback on Talk About events, please let us know. Or if you would like Kamelia’s input or help with any international student issues or initiatives at your college or school please email her at kameliat@bu.edu.