Friendship Week, hosted by International Education and Services, promotes global connections

International Education and Services hosted its very first Friendship Week from September 9th through September 13th, offering a variety of activities aimed at fostering global connections and celebrating cultural diversity on campus.

The week kicked off on Monday with a friendship bracelet and keychain-making session, held from 1 to 3 p.m., where students gathered to create keepsakes and bond over shared experiences.

International Student counselor and one of the key organizers, Hailey Leonard, emphasized the importance of building connections across cultures to strengthen the campus community.

“We try to offer as many cultural experiences as we can. We try to really emphasize cultural sharing between students,” Leonard said.

Leonard hopes Friendship Week will inspire students to form lasting bonds and embrace the diversity that enriches the campus community.

“If students go to any of these events they see they can try new foods and meet new people,” Leonard said.

As part of the week’s activities, International Education and Services partnered with the Linus Project on Thursday, Sept 12, to host a tie blanket-making event. Participants worked together to create cozy blankets, which were donated to children in need.

Exchange Student and Environmental Science major Adiba Damim wants to take advantage of the short time she is at SEMO.

“As an exchange student, I’m always looking for opportunities and doing as much as I can do in the three or four months that I’m here,” Damim said. “I saw the advertisement of Friendship Week going on, and making the blankets for children in need is something that really drew my attention and I knew I wanted to volunteer.”

Exchange Student and Marketing major Haidham Malhis was interested in the volunteer hours at the university when he stumbled on Friendship Week.

“I was looking for volunteer opportunities within the university and it got my attention especially since it's for kids in need, it's a good cause,” Malhis said.

The atmosphere at the event was lively, with participants eagerly working together, and enjoying the sense of community as they contributed to a meaningful cause.

“My favorite part of the events has been the atmosphere, the people who came are great. I’m loving the experience,” Malhis said.

Freshman Hospitality Major Samjhama Bouder liked the creative aspect of the event and working with hands-on projects.

“I like creating things so it’s been fun being able to work with my friends to benefit the community.” Bouder said.

On Friday, Sept 13 Friendship Week came to a close with a Game Night, offering students an interactive way to wrap up the week’s events. Attendees were encouraged to bring friends to participate in a variety of games. The event provided a relaxed atmosphere where students could unwind and celebrate the friendships they formed throughout the week.

If students are interested in participating in future events or learning more about the programs and opportunities offered, they can visit SEMO’s website for additional details and updates.