Calendar of Events

Cultural activities are an integral part of international education at UNI. The OIE provides a variety of fun and entertaining opportunities for our students to experience everyday life in the Midwest.

Here are some of activities we provide

  • Coffee Hour | Coffee, cookies and conversations with friends
  • Cultural Events | celebrate our students cultures and various festivals and traditions
  • Volunteering within the Community | Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Public Library, In School Classrooms
  • Field trips to experience Midwest and agricultural culture
  • Regional trips to neighboring states to explore what the Midwest offers
  • Local events and celebrations in the Cedar Valley Community 

Upcoming Events

November

November 18-22nd, 2024 

International Education Week | Activities All Week Long


November 18th, 2024 

Yukata and Kimono Try On and Snacks | 11-1pm | Maucker Union Main Floor 

Join us in the Maucker Union for a Japan Highlight in collaboration with the Asian Student Union, and UNI’s very own JOI Coordinator Maoko Umeda! Try on yukatas and kimonos (traditional Japanese clothing), try some snacks, and snap a pic! 

International Admissions; Nigeria Highlight | 12 - 1 p.m.

Want to dive into the heart of West Africa and discover the richness of Nigerian culture? Join Bushroh, an international student from Nigeria, for an exciting Instagram Live session where she’ll share the essence of her vibrant homeland! 🌟 Bushroh will take you on a virtual tour of Nigeria, from its lively cities to its breathtaking landscapes, unique traditions, and flavorful cuisine. Whether it’s the energetic spirit of Lagos, the historical roots of Kano, or the deliciousness of jollof rice, you’ll get an insider’s look at what makes Nigeria a truly special place. Join us for an hour of discovery, and bring your questions for Bushroh as she shares all things Nigeria—from culture to everyday life!

Tune in here: https://www.instagram.com/uni.international/ 

International Scholar Presentation | 2-3pm | Plaza Conference Room, Maucker Union 

Join us and scholar Luthando Mpho Molefe as he presents his research entitled, “Interweaving a Service-Learning and an Academic Classroom Threads as a Transformative Pedagogy towards the Achievement of a Community-University.” The presentation can be found in the Plaza Conference Room and light snacks will be provided after the presentation for attendees! 

Japanese Tea Ceremony | 5-6pm | CME 109P

The Asian Student Union in collaboration with Maoko Umeda, JOI Coordinator are bringing a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony to campus! Learn more about the ceremony, try the matcha, and learn how to make traditional sweets! Join us in Maucker Union, Room 109P (CME Classroom) to take part! We hope to see you there! 

International Movie Night | 6:30-8pm | Rod Library 287 

Join us for an impactful evening at International Movie Hour, where we will be streaming a powerful film of the aftermath of the Kosovo War, focusing on the untold stories of women whose husbands were killed in war. The movie follows the journey of one woman's struggle to rebuild her life amidst profound loss and societal rejection. Don't miss this opportunity to experience a human-oriented story that above all sheds light on the Strength of Women in the face of a postwar society.

Afrobeats with CAB | 8-10pm | Maucker Union Ballrooms 

The Campus Activities Board, African Student Union, and the Office of International Engagement have partnered to offer a night of fun and music with our AfroBeats Night! We invite you to join us in the Maucker Union Ballrooms for a night full of food, music, photos, and more at this amazing event! Want to check out Afrobeats before you come? Check out playlist here: Ayra Starr - Rush (Official Music Video)


November 19th, 2024 

 International Admissions; China Highlight | 12 - 1 p.m.

Curious about life in China and its fascinating culture? Join Wenyan, an international student from China, for an insightful Instagram Live session where she’ll share the beauty and uniqueness of her homeland! 🌟 Wenyan will take you on a virtual journey through China’s rich heritage, incredible landmarks, delicious cuisine, and much more. From the ancient wonders like the Great Wall to the modern vibrancy of cities like Shanghai, she’ll give you an insider’s look at everything China has to offer—straight from a student’s perspective. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to learn about China from Wenyan herself!

Tune in here: https://www.instagram.com/uni.international/ 

Fulbright Information Session | Hosted By Honors and Scholars | 3 - 4 p.m.

Learn more about the Fulbright Program and how YOU can take advantage of all of the opportunities that they have to offer! 

Taste of Culture | 4:30-6:30pm | Maucker Union Ballrooms 

Taste of Culture is our timeless tradition of highlighting some of the many different cultures and countries that we host here at UNI! Come and meet our students, faculty, and staff as they showcase their countries and share their cultures. Cultural foods, activities, performances, and more await you! See you soon in the Maucker Union Ballrooms! Check out some of our highlight events below: 

5 pm | Brazilian Drum Group Performance 

5:30 pm | Storytime with the Cedar Falls Public Library 

5:45 pm | Mariachi Band Performance 

TBD | Student Performance: Traditional Chinese Dance


November 20th, 2024 

Passport Day | Hosted by the Study Abroad Center in 103 East Bartlett | 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Did you know, about 40% of U.S. citizens hold a passport? As part of International Education Week, the Study Abroad Center and Black Hawk County Recorder's Office are working to increase accessibility to obtaining a passport.  UNI faculty, staff, students, and community members can renew or apply for their U.S. passports at UNI's Passport Day! The Black Hawk County Recorder's Office will be on campus on Wednesday, November 20th from 11am to 3pm at the Study Abroad Center (103 East Bartlett) to assist you. Our office will take free passport photos either before or during the event.  Click here for detailed information on passport application requirements.

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at study-abroad@uni.edu

 International Admissions; Bangladesh Highlight | 12 - 1 p.m.

Join us for a special Instagram Live session hosted by Khairul, a current international student, as he takes us on an exciting journey through his home country, Bangladesh! 🌟 Khairul will share fascinating insights into Bangladesh's rich culture, history, and vibrant student life. From delicious food to stunning landscapes, this live session is a great opportunity to learn more about life in Bangladesh and get a personal perspective from a student who's experiencing it all firsthand. Don’t miss out on this engaging session! 

Tune in here: https://www.instagram.com/uni.international/ 


November 21st, 2024 

International Admissions; Pakistan Highlight | 12 - 1 p.m. 

Want to learn more about Pakistan's rich culture, history, and vibrant student life? Don’t miss this special Instagram Live session hosted by Faraz and Niazi, two international students from Pakistan, who will take you on a virtual tour of their incredible home country! 🌟Faraz and Niazi will share their personal experiences and offer insights into Pakistan’s diverse traditions, stunning landscapes, mouth watering food, and iconic landmarks. Whether it's the bustling streets of Lahore, the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, or the warm hospitality of its people, you'll get a firsthand look at what makes Pakistan truly special. 

Tune in here: https://www.instagram.com/uni.international/ 

Thanksgiving Dinner | 5-8pm | Threehouse Ministries, 2422 College Street (Invitation Only) 

Our programming, events, and community cannot thrive without the work and support of amazing partner organizations, host families, RSVP members, and Conversation Partners! This event is for all of YOU to thank you for all you have done for our students! It also is a THANK YOU to our amazing students for all of their hard work and contributions to our community! Join us for a free meal provided by Treehouse Ministries and their partner parishes! 

*(Halal, Vegetarian, and other options available) 


November 22nd, 2024 

International Admissions; Ghana Highlight | 12 - 1 p.m.

Ready to learn more about the vibrant culture and beauty of Ghana? Join Maud, an international student from Ghana, for a special Instagram Live session where she’ll share the story of her home country! 🌟 From Ghana’s rich history to its colorful traditions, Maud will give you a personal look at what makes her country unique. Expect insights into Ghanaian food, music, culture, and some of the country’s must-see destinations—all from a student’s perspective! 

Tune in here: https://www.instagram.com/uni.international/ 

December 

December 7th 

Visit a Christmas Tree Farm | 3-5 p.m. | SIGN UP REQUIRED

Get into the holiday spirit with a visit to our beautiful Christmas Tree Farm! 🌟 Wander through rows of fresh, fragrant trees, enjoy festive activities, and capture the perfect family photos. Whether you're looking for the perfect tree or simply want to embrace the seasonal charm, this is a fun outing for all ages. 

Ornament Making and Decoration | 5-6pm | Threehouse Ministries, 2422 College Street 

Unleash your holiday spirit with a fun, hands-on ornament-making session at Treehouse Ministries! Join us from 5-6 p.m. for an evening of crafting, decorating, and spreading festive cheer. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just looking for a fun activity, this event is perfect for all! Make your own unique ornaments to take home, or decorate a special gift for someone you love. We can’t wait to craft with you!


December 13th 

Holiday Dinner | 5-8pm | Threehouse Ministries, 2422 College Street 

Celebrate the season with good food, great company, and festive cheer at our Holiday Dinner! From 5-8 p.m., enjoy a delicious holiday feast, warm conversation, and the joy of coming together with friends and family. Whether you're looking to enjoy a delicious meal or connect with your community, this evening promises to be a memorable part of your holiday season. 


December 14th 

End of Semester Celebration | 4-5pm | Maucker Union, CME Classroom 109P 

The semester is wrapping up, and it's time to take a well-deserved break! Join us for an End of Semester Celebration at Maucker Union. Whether you're celebrating finishing exams or just looking to relax and recharge, this event is the perfect way to celebrate all of your hard work and our students that will be graduating this December! Let's come together to celebrate all of our communities hard work, reflect on the semester, and kick off the holiday season with some fun! 


January 

Dates and Activities TBD

Coming December 2024 


February

Dates and Activities TBD

Coming December 2024 


March 

Dates and Activities TBD

Coming December 2024 


April 

Dates and Activities TBD

Coming December 2024 


May

Dates and Activities TBD

Coming December 2024