January/February 2025 Update

Spring International Student Orientation Welcomes 30+ New Students from 19 Different Countries

The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) kicked off the Spring 2025 semester by warmly welcoming over 30 new international students from 19 diverse countries! The winter weather treated us well, creating an ideal atmosphere for students to meet one another and settle into life in Iowa and at UNI before temperatures dipped below 0. During International Student Orientation, students had the opportunity to connect with local volunteers, explore campus, meet advisors, learn more about their upcoming semester, and create bonds with one another. Many of our volunteers and returning students were eager to share their knowledge of the area and help the new arrivals adjust to life at UNI. In addition to the warm welcomes and introductions, the orientation program included the Northeast Iowa Food Bank (NEIFB) “Pack the Dome” event, which is highly anticipated every year. This community-centered initiative not only gave our international students a chance to give back but also helped build a sense of unity and purpose as they worked alongside local volunteers to support those in need. It was an unforgettable experience, and a fantastic way for our international community to get involved in something meaningful from the very start of their semester. With over 200 international students now enrolled at UNI for the Spring 2025 semester, the diversity of perspectives and cultures on campus continues to thrive. This ever-growing international presence is an integral part of making UNI a truly global institution, enriching the academic environment and expanding the horizons of all students.

OAS Scholarship Recipients Join UNI’s CIEP and Graduate Programs

Starting this semester, UNI is proud to be in partnership with the Organization of American States (OAS) to offer specialized scholarships for Latin American students interested in studying short-term in our Cultural and Intensive English Program (CIEP) or in select Graduate programs. This semester, we were thrilled to welcome four talented scholarship recipients into the CIEP Program. These students represent various Latin American countries and bring with them unique perspectives and experiences that enrich our learning environment. This partnership with the OAS reflects UNI’s ongoing commitment to strengthening academic and cultural exchanges between the U.S. and Latin America. The opportunity for students to study at UNI under this scholarship is a fantastic way to foster global collaboration and ensure that international students have access to the world-class education and experiences that UNI has to offer. We look forward to continuing this program and expanding our efforts to build deeper, more meaningful connections between our campus and Latin American communities.

Lunar New Year Celebration Rings in the Year of the Snake

OIE hosted a Lunar New Year celebration at UNI, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake (2025) in traditional style. Hosted in collaboration with the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, the event brought together not only UNI students but also members of the Cedar Valley community for an evening of celebration and cultural exchange. The energy was electric as everyone enjoyed a variety of activities that showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Lunar New Year. Students and community members participated in a lively photo booth session, posing with colorful props and costumes to capture the festive spirit. They also indulged in hot pot, a beloved dish that brought everyone together around a shared meal. In addition to the food and fun, attendees were treated to tanghulu (candied fruit), a popular Chinese treat that added a touch of sweetness to the day. There were also craft stations where participants made bracelets, practiced traditional paper cutting, learned Chinese script writing, and participated in a lucky draw for the chance to win festive prizes. 

Valentine’s Day Event: Sweet Treats and Japanese Traditions

OIE also had the opportunity to host a delightful chocolate-making event on the evening before Valentine’s Day, creating a unique opportunity for students to get creative and indulge in some sweet treats. With over 40 enthusiastic participants, the event quickly became a hit, as students crafted their own chocolates and enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow attendees. Adding a special touch to the celebration, JOI Coordinator Maoko Umeda led a fascinating presentation about Valentine’s Day traditions in Japan. She introduced participants to the concept of “White Day,” a unique Japanese holiday celebrated on March 14th, where individuals return the gifts received on Valentine’s Day. Maoko also demonstrated how to tie the chocolates using the traditional “furoshiki” method, a Japanese wrapping technique that uses cloth to beautifully present gifts in an eco-friendly way. The event was an overwhelming success, with participants creating beautiful chocolate treats while learning about Japanese culture. The turnout exceeded expectations, and the event had to be concluded early due to the high demand and running out of supplies—an exciting “problem” to have! 

Looking Ahead to a Thriving Spring Semester

This spring, UNI continues to celebrate its international community, fostering an environment where students from all corners of the globe can come together to learn, grow, and connect. From welcoming new international students to celebrating Lunar New Year and hosting engaging cultural events like the Valentine’s Day chocolate-making workshop, we are excited to continue sharing with the community, and supporting our students as they continue their academic journey this next semester. As the semester progresses, we look forward to even more opportunities for cultural exchange and community-building.. The Spring 2025 semester is shaping up to be one full of enriching experiences, and we are excited to see what the future holds for our international students and the campus community as a whole! To check out more of our future events, visit: https://internationalengagement.uni.edu/cultural-events-community-engagement/calendar-events