The Global Learning and Intercultural Support Office recently held their latest re-entry workshop for Saint Mary’s students returning from study abroad experiences all over the world.
Re-entry workshops, held every fall and winter semester for returning students to bookend pre-departure sessions, are an opportunity for participants to carefully reflect on their experiences and engage with others still “processing” the significance of their time overseas. Last week’s event included students recently returned from France, Colombia, Japan, and Italy.
Using guided reflection, participants are asked to consider about how their experiences might have shaped their intellectual growth, intercultural understanding, independence, resilience, and global perspectives. “Whether they were abroad for a year-long exchange, a month-long field school, or language immersion programs, guided reflection can help make students’ experiences more impactful long after their sojourn has ended,” says Jonathan Shaw, Education Developer for Global Transitions, who facilitated a reflection session.
To inquire about global learning opportunities and support services, contact the Global Learning Office by email at Global@smu.ca or visit the office in the Atrium Building, Room 106.
Participants were asked to consider how experiencing another culture might help us better understand where we come from
