Happenings in 2007-2008
Through the cycle of this academic year, CISLA Acting Director Fred Paxton and Associate Director Mary Devins prepare and guide students in the classes of 2008, 2009 and 2010 through the many components of the CISLA challenge. Their long-standing commitment towards preparing CISLA students for professional and personal excellence outside of the College remains as strong as ever.
Seeking out internships
Internship and Publications Coordinator Dorothy (Dot) Wang, newly hired in August, 2007, began to work with CISLA students in the research and preparation of the unique pre-professional, cultural experience known as the CISLA internship. Dot is currently working with the Class of 2009 in securing their summer internship placements. Currently, only nine CISLA juniors are on campus. The rest are studying abroad, honing their language skills in preparation for their summer 2008 internships.
Seniors share experiences, seminars
During the fall 2007 semester, CISLA seniors returned to campus from their internships around the world, began their Senior Integrative Projects (SIP's) and are participating in their CISLA senior seminar, IS 401 New Perspectives on Modern Global Society. This year's senior class of 35 had internships in 18 countries including Cameroon, Mali, China, Germany, Bolivia and Italy. Through class discussions and presentations, students shared their overseas experiences with one another as well as the concept of living in a global society. Several CISLA seniors are currently applying for scholarships and awards to continue their research and work abroad.
The annual CISLA banquet
Over Fall Weekend 2007, CISLA honored the returning seniors with its annual CISLA Fall Banquet. CISLA welcomed the Class of 2008's families and friends to celebrate the students' completion of their internships. The banquet included group presentations by the seniors that highlighted common themes of their SIP's. CISLA also sponsored a lecture by Connecticut College and CISLA alumna LaShawn Jefferson '88 titled "Human Rights: Are They Really Universal?" LaShawn is the former Executive Director of the Women's Rights Division of Human Rights Watch. Following her lecture, she attended the CISLA Banquet as did Wilbert Quintanilla '02, another CISLA alumna, who was a featured speaker.
A record number of applicants for 2010
CISLA is currently in the application process for its Class of 2010. CISLA had a record number of applicants this year – 94! When the pool is finally narrowed down and the chosen candidates are admitted into CISLA in the spring of 2008, the students will begin their journey through the CISLA program, including the CILSA designed and required course, IS 201: Perspectives on Modern Global Society. This course will be team taught by a group of Connecticut College professors from various fields. Early in the spring semester, a special ceremonial banquet will be held for the students and their parents to honor the selected sophomores. Later in the spring, the sophomore class will visit the United Nations and meet with delegates from the Permanent Missions of several member nations. In the past, CISLA students have met with delegates from the missions of Argentina, the United States and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Students have the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue on a variety of global issues.
The traditional spring ball
Other events in this academic year will include the 14th Annual Margaret Abel '39 Powell Spring Ball. This elegant evening of dancing to The Dick Campo Big Band has become a wonderful campus tradition. In preparation for the ball, the College sponsors a ballroom dance course so that students can arrive well prepared to dance the night away.
The Certificate Ceremony
Lastly, CISLA will hold its International Studies Certificate Ceremony during commencement weekend. At this special ceremony the CISLA Class of 2008 will receive certificates of International Studies and the Liberal Arts. The certificates recognize the rigorous academic accomplishments in attaining proficiency in a foreign language, in developing a personal and global understanding as exemplified by their senior projects/theses and a tremendous amount of personal growth. As in past ceremonies, proud parents, students, faculty, and staff will celebrate these joyous accomplishments together.
Last Modified: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 17:00