The theme for today was "internationalization in higher education and the vital role of support staff". We heard a series of lectures from the Director of Internationalization, the Academic Registrar (more similar to our VP of Student Affairs role), the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and the General Manager of the Graduate Students' Association. I left with pages full of notes about the creative ways in which they are layering their internationalization efforts and leveraging their sister-city connection to Nanjing, China.
Some examples:
- They conduct service staff cultural training (ex. catering) to help them better understand the needs of the international students and their own inherent cultural values. They even took it as far as exchanging chefs with their sister institution in Nanjing.
- The York Award was developed to recognize student excellence in co-curricular activities and skills development. Students earn points from study abroad, volunteerism, internships, etc. The interesting thing is that participation alone does not earn them the award. They must pass an oral exam where they are required to present evidence of their skills. Selling yourself doesn't cut it. You must explain what you learned through the co-curriculars. This helps to distinguish between "doing and learning". Check it out at http://www.york.ac.uk/study/careers-skills/york-award
- They use Skype to connect international alumni to Career Services so alumni can train career advisors on how the job search process differs by country. This helps their career staff better assist international students who wish to return home for jobs and it brings about a general sense of global awareness.
- They hold a graduation ceremony in China for the international students from that country. It allows their families to take part in the celebration.
After lunch and a group photo we took a double decker city bus into the city center of York. We met up with the Yorkshire Museum Director, Science City York, a representative from the City of York Council, York's Adult Education Director, and other representatives. They told us how they have been able to promote York as a destination for tourism and a place for new business growth. As someone married to Indy's "Mr. Sister City" I was really interested to hear how their partnership with Nanjing had equally strong connections in the business community. I have lots of ideas to share with Peter.
We were very thankful to be let loose into the city for sometime to explore. A small group of us decided to climb up to the top of the city wall and take this great walk around the perimeter of the city. The narrow walkways gave magnificent views and a totally different perspective of the town. It was a real treat and a total surprise. At the end of the wall we descended into narrow streets in an area called "The Shambles". The old bowing buildings almost touch. We happened upon a great antiques store and a local soap shop.
When our time was up we headed over to St. Helen's Square for a reception hosted in York Mansion House by the Right Honourable Lord Mayor Julie Gunnell. What a mansion! Sipping wine with a view of the York Minster out the old wavy glass windows felt a bit posh for a study abroad advisor. But she was so gracious, fun and welcoming that we felt right at home. She opened up her dining room just to show us around and tell about hosting guests like the Queen. The Lord Mayor is an elected position from the City Council with a one year term. The only other Lord Mayor is of London. She is the 9th woman in this role. Technically she is in line for the throne, although "practically a millionth" according to her-- but was good humored enough to high-five Jay when he suggested that at least she is in line. I loved meeting her and could tell what a true love she has for York and public service.
