Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

St. John's University is celebrating International Education Week with a series of events aimed at highlighting the diverse cultures represented on its campus. The Office of Global Programs sponsors the week-long celebration, which brings together students, faculty, administrators, and staff.

The festivities began with the Johnnies World’s Fair on November 18. This event allowed international students to showcase their cultures through ethnic food, dances, and photographs at the Queens campus in New York. Students from five continents participated, focusing on countries like Vietnam, France, Bangladesh, and Jamaica.

A highlight of the fair was a demonstration by Capoeira Terreiro da Lua, a local troupe performing Brazilian martial arts and dance.

For many international students like Iona Boca and Alexia Flamanzeanu from Romania, this event provided an opportunity to reconnect with their home culture while engaging with the local community. They have formed a small group of Romanian students who regularly meet to share food and stories from their homeland.

“We have been lucky to build our community here at St. John’s,” said Alexia Flamanzeanu. “That is why events like this are so important.”

Isabel Armijos from Ecuador also shared her experience at the fair by presenting cassava bread. She described Ecuador as “paradise” due to its diverse geography including the Amazon River and Galapagos Islands.

“Cassava bread is such an important part of my culture,” Isabel noted. “I am so happy that people are interested in learning about my culture.”

International Education Week was introduced by US departments to promote global education programs. At St. John’s University, it aligns with their mission to offer a global education through an internationalized curriculum.

According to the Office of Global Programs, over 40 percent of undergraduates study abroad during their time at St. John's University. The institution hosts more than 700 international students from around 100 countries.

Other events include traditional cuisine showcases at Montgoris Dining Hall featuring dishes from China, India, Canada; student panels discussing international experiences; and a Jeopardy-style game night exploring global cultures.