Celebrating international education

As an international student at the University of Delaware, Atheer Almubarak found that proudly sharing her Saudi Arabian culture and customs was an essential part of her global education.

"Rather than feeling ashamed, international students should view their unique heritage as an opportunity to enrich the cultural tapestry of the University community and beyond," Almubarak wrote in her submission to the 2023 International Student Essay Contest. "By openly embracing and sharing their traditions, they not only foster cross-cultural understanding but also contribute to the global diversity that makes educational institutions like the University of Delaware vibrant and enriching environments for all."

While Almubarak's story, "The Beginning of Improvement," took home first place in the 2023 International Student Essay Contest category for English Language Institute (ELI) students, members of the University's global community each have an important story to share. Whether this story begins at UD or at one of the University's 100+ study abroad locations, global education is a cause for celebration.