International & Multicultural Student Organizations Western Illinois University offers a vast array of multi-cultural opportunities to staff, students, and other members of the WIU community. CASA LATINA Supportive bilingual/bicultural environment Recreational facility Library of Hispanic cultures Tradicion Hispana Dance Troupe Home of Latin American Student Association (LASO) Hispanic Heritage Month GWENDOLYN BROOKS CULTURAL CENTER Supportive, relaxed recreational and meeting facility Black History Month Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration Soul Food Festival Dance Troupe Heritage Ensemble INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION WIU students come from 42 states and 49 countries around the world. About 400 international students come to Western each year. Top five countries represented are: Japan, Korea, People's Republic of China, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia. The International Friendship Club sponsors events like the annual International Bazaar, soccer matches, and international games day for the campus and community. Amnesty International and the Western Illinois Civil Liberties Union have active groups on campus. WIU WOMEN'S CENTER Supportive environment for students, faculty, staff Meeting rooms and lounge Library Sponsors anti-violence rallies, Teach-In Against Hate Crimes, 5K Run/Walk/Roll to End Breast Cancer, and annual Leadership and Women's Issues Conference STUDY ABROAD Why Study Abroad?... Career opportunities: Companies want applicants with backgrounds in other languages and cultures. Foreign language skills: Study abroad gives you the chance to become fluent in another language. Cultural appreciation: Knowing more about another culture sharpens your awareness of others. Communication skills: In all professions, good communicators are highly successful. Bilingual or intercultural experience can strengthen your communication skills. Personal growth: Study abroad can make a profound impact on your life and may help you see other issues more clearly. OFFICE OF STUDENT ACTIVITIES The Office of Student Activities coordinates the following programs and services: Minority Student Orientation Campus Dialogue on Multicultural Issues WISDOM (leadership conference) Students of Color Graduation Celebration