On Tuesday, May 28th, 2024, NHL Stenden university proudly hosted the first pilot event for the Bridges by Mentors project, a new initiative designed to foster cultural understanding and internationalization among local and international students. The event welcomed over 60 pupils from Gymnasium Beyers Naudé, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with excitement and curiosity.
The day began with a warm welcome and an informative briefing for about the event’s schedule. The Dutch students, aged 13-14, excitedly anticipated the activities ahead. The session kicked off with a compelling storytelling segment, where international students shared their personal experiences of living and studying in the Netherlands. This allowed the guests to gain insights into the international perspective of the country. These five-minute stories offered valuable insights into the joys and challenges of adapting to Dutch culture, providing a relatable and engaging introduction to the day’s theme.
Following the storytelling, a Kahoot quiz was organized, challenging the Dutch students to test their knowledge about their own country! This interactive game was entertaining, setting a lively tone for the rest of the event.
The highlight of the day was the Language Village activity, designed to immerse students in practical English-speaking scenarios. The students navigated various stations mimicking real-life settings such as restaurants, hospitals, airports, and more. This interactive exercise allowed them to practice their language skills in a fun and engaging way, simulating everyday situations and enhancing their confidence in speaking English.
As the event drew to a close, a debriefing session was held where students shared their reflections on the experience. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many students expressing how much they enjoyed the activities and appreciated the opportunity to interact with people from different cultural backgrounds.
It was inspiring to even see new possible relationships forming between International and Dutch students, realizing the power of a common language to bridge cultural borders. Phone numbers were exchanged and hence, the kick of new mentoring relationships are to be formed!
The Bridges by Mentors event was not only an educational experience but also a proof of how internationalization has the power to bring people together. The success of this pilot event promises a bright future for the program, as it continues to build trust, understanding, and well-being among international and local students. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants and look forward to more enriching experiences. Let’s continue to bridge cultures and create valuable connections through the Bridges by Mentors project!