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Culture

culture

Culture is the set of social norms, values and practices specific to a group that shape that group's identity and way of life. You will find stories and infographics on how to build your cultural intelligence and become a more open-minded individual. This includes student experiences traveling internationally, communicating interculturally, and how understanding your own culture in relation to others. It is important to be respectful, understanding and open to different cultures as one can learn a lot academically, personally and professionally.

Lights
Blog
Homesickness During the Holidays

The holidays are a time for fun and festivities, but the feeling of being homesick can also creep in during this time. Here are some steps to help you through it!

Audrey standing in front of Simon Fraser University, with her dog
Blog
Mobilizing Indigenous Knowledge Systems in my Work

I strive to make SFU a safer place for our Indigenous community to grow and flourish.

A stack of books and a notebook on a desk
Blog
‘Worthless’ Majors are More Than Worthy 

What gives the liberal arts a bad reputation? An SFU FASS student shares their perspective on the colonial roots of the devaluation of liberal arts degrees and how their contributions to society are indispensable despite it. 

A group of students laughing together at a coffee shop with their laptops on the table
Blog
Immersing Yourself at SFU

The existence of student-led clubs, unions, and organizations on campus are often taken for granted. Joining such clubs or groups though, can benefit you more than you may realize.

Photo of Rachel
Blog
Female Empowerment in STEM

Rachel George graduates with a bachelor of applied science degree from the School of Mechatronics Systems Engineering. She reflects on the gender bias and underrepresentation of women in STEM, and her personal journey navigating through a historically male-dominated field. 

Photo of Dr. Alberto Lusoli
Blog
Tackling Socially Relevant Problems

Dr. Alberto Lusoli, Ph.D., receives the Graduate Dean's Medal. Currently working as a postdoctoral researcher at the Digital Democracies Institute, he reflects on his research findings and his overall experience as a graduate student at the School of Communication.

Girl standing next to sign that says "Schneider Electric", pointing at sign.
Blog
What it’s Really Like Working at a Multinational Fortune 500 Company

As a Marketing and Communications Intern at Schneider Electric’s Solar Business, I’ve gotten the opportunity to work with so many professionals around the world. Don’t worry, it’s not as stressful as it sounds. In this blog, I'll talk about some of the things I've learned while working for a multinational Fortune 500 company.

Landscape image of an Indian fort with a road l
Blog
"Why Would Ever You Choose to Work in India?”

Despite the warnings and worries of her friends and family, Serena set off on an adventure, accepting a co-op position on the other side of the world, in India, and she has no regrets. Sometimes in order to grow we need to challenge ourselves, and Serena did just that.

Claire and her students
Blog
Heat in Catalonia: Lessons from International Co-op

A student desperately wanting to have class outside suggested we put the decision to a vote. An overwhelming amount of hands went up for having class in the sun and I paused to think about how I could adjust my lesson plan without a chalkboard. The students saw my hesitation and said, “but Claire, don’t you believe in our right to have a democracy?”. This was when I knew I would learn a lot more than just how to teach, from my international co-op term in Catalonia.

a neon glowing building
Blog
Cultural Competence and Working Abroad

Have you landed an International Co-op work-term and begun preparing for your semester abroad? Surely, you have done your research and are aware of the cultural differences and nuances between where you are going, and your home country? If you haven’t, have no fear! This article is meant to help you understand the basic tips and tricks to adjust to the cultural differences in your new workplace, making your transition much easier.

An image of the author on a balcony overlooking Spain
Blog
My Journey to Understanding the Importance of Intercultural Communication

"I realized that as time went on, I was having difficulties connecting and adapting to this new culture I believe this sprouted from the strong language barrier and my inability to communicate with most of my co-workers". Read Aileen's story about how she overcame culture clashing and engage in intercultural communication. 

Canadian flag waving in the wind
Blog
Adventurous Vibes: Your Guide To An Incredible Study Experience in Canada

Are you thinking of studying in Canada? Are you about to arrive or have recently landed? Make the most of your experience with these tips for studying abroad.

A student working alone in a library
Blog
Life as an International Student: The Things We Don't Talk About

There are a lot of things your international student friends have never told you. From depression to pressure to stereotypes -  life isn't always easy when you are studying abroad. Read an international students take on life overseas. 

Video
What is Privilege?
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