International Week transports students

By Kate York, kyork@mariettatimes.com
They didn’t get to hop a plane to China, but Belpre middle and high school students studying China did get to take a trip Wednesday to learn a little more about the culture in the Far East.

The students have been studying the language with visiting Chinese teacher Che Bin and Wednesday came to Marietta College to take a calligraphy class on the campus, as part of the college’s International Week.

“This is all brand new to me,” said seventh-grader Kayla Roberts, 13. “I’ve done a little calligraphy but not with the ink and brushes. It’s challenging but it’s a lot more fun than just being in the classroom.”

As the students learned and practiced the calligraphy, sounds and aromas from around the world surrounded them on the upper floor of the Gilman Student Center where an International Cafe, featuring snacks from around the world, was also being held.

Spanish music played behind them as Belpre High School students Roger Lemley and Josh Skinner learned calligraphy and how to properly use chopsticks.

“It’s really fun,” said Lemley, 18. “It’s different than I thought it was going to be—there’s more to it. It’s really showing us part of the culture.”

It’s the first time students from area schools have taken part in MC’s International Week, although some events are always open to the public.

“It’s opened a new horizon for the college’s efforts to promote internationalization in American education,” said Luding Tong, professor of modern languages at the college. “It is a great opportunity... for these students to have a valuable cultural experience.”

Before the younger students arrived, college students and staff took part in everything from French poetry and Arabic poster presentations to “A Taste of the World” sampling of cuisine during the 14th annual International Week.

Still to come is a belly dancing performance, international theme dinner and a presentation by South Africa’s ambassador to Mozambique.

Che said he worked with the college because he wanted a rich experience for his students.

“It’s very good for them to learn calligraphy,” he said. “It has a long history in the Chinese culture.”

Che’s presence at his school has also provided unique glimpses into Chinese culture, said Skinner, 16.

“Because of him we understand the government and the culture,” he said. “He helps us understand a lot more.”

Skinner said even the proper way to use chopsticks was a mystery to him before the field trip.

“I wasn’t familiar with it at all,” he said. “I could never do it but now I can.”