Celebrating International Education Week

November 12, 2026 — International education week brings people together to share knowledge, discover new perspectives and build connections across cultures. From November 16 to 20, Laurentian University will celebrate International Education Week by highlighting the experiences of students and inviting the campus community to participate in activities that encourage shared learning.

For students, studying in another country offers opportunities to pursue academic goals while becoming part of a new community. Their experiences also enrich the lives of classmates, faculty and staff, who learn from the perspectives and traditions they bring.

Patrick Simeon (Haiti)

Originally from Haiti, Patrick Simeon is in his second year of the Bachelor of Business Administration program, specializing in accounting. Having previously studied geology and electricity, he found his interest in business through his experience in inventory management and customer service.

“My main motivation was to challenge myself and build a solid career in accounting while immersing myself in the Canadian environment,” said Simeon.

Through group projects, volunteering at Sudbury’s French-language book fair and working at Laurentian’s International Office, Simeon has connected with people from different backgrounds and learned how cultural perspectives influence approaches to business.

“Working and studying in multicultural environments has taught me that diversity is an incredible strength in business because it stimulates innovation and offers new perspectives,” he said.

Simeon shares his Haitian and Francophone background, including his Creole language and culture, while drawing on his experience to guide other international students. He hopes to build his accounting career in Canada and contribute to the region’s economic development. His advice to students is to become involved through work, projects and volunteering.

Olivia Pellissery (India) 

For Olivia Pellissery, moving from Kerala, India, to Sudbury meant adapting to a new climate and culture while learning to live independently. Now in her third year of behavioural neuroscience, she chose Laurentian as a pathway toward medical school, drawn by the program, research opportunities and surrounding nature.

“I just wanted to push myself. I felt like if I stayed in my comfort zone I wouldn’t really grow,” she said.

Friendships helped her find a sense of belonging. When her childhood dog died back in India, her friends visited and checked on her, offering support during a difficult time far from home.

“That’s when I kind of realized I have a little family here, and Canada started to feel more like home,” she said.

Those friendships have also encouraged cultural exchange. Pellissery learned Hindi through her friends and shares Malayalam words, food from Kerala and the celebration of Onam. She credits studying abroad with strengthening her independence, leadership and openness to different perspectives, and hopes to further develop her research skills.

Her advice to other students is to reach out, even when the transition feels difficult.

“Talk to people, join clubs, and ask for help if you need it. You will find your crowd, it just takes a bit of time.”

Join International Education Week

Throughout the week, students, faculty and staff can explore international opportunities and learn from one another through activities across campus.

The program begins on Monday, November 16, with coffee and conversation with the International Office team, followed by a performance by a Latino band in the Parker Atrium. Tuesday, November 17, will feature an international exchange presentation and a Student Cultural Showcase, also in the Parker Atrium.

On Wednesday, November 18, a Sudbury Workers Education and Advocacy Centre information booth and an EDHRO presentation will focus on workplace rights and safe learning and working environments.

In partnership with Maamwizing Indigenous Research Institute, Fire Keeping Teachings will take place on Thursday, November 19, at the Teaching Lodge in Founders’ Square. Additional learning and connection opportunities will be available there on Friday, November 20.

The week will also include an International Entrepreneurs Café on Friday, November 20, from 1 to 3 p.m. at The Foundry in the Cliff Fielding Building, where students can explore resources to help develop their business ideas.

Students interested in outgoing exchange opportunities can contact LUGO@laurentian.ca