Several individuals from around the world will gather together

this afternoon to share their languages and culture by reading

poetry together.

The International Studies program will sponsor an

International Poetry Reading in conjunction with International

Week at 4 p.m. in the Tarble Arts Center.

Sandra Beauchamp, a faculty member of the Intensive

English Program, has organized an event where several

individuals representing countries throughout the world,

including Japan, Poland, Russia, Colombia, Mexico and

Bangladesh, will read poetry in their native language.

Sue Songer, international student adviser, said the poetry

will be read in the student’s native language before being

translated into English.

Songer said last year’s International Poetry Reading was

an “incredible experience,” and she is looking forward to

today’s reading. She said the beauty of the languages comes out

in poetry, as does any language when read in poetry.

Last year’s (reading) was a beautiful cultural

experience,” Songer said.

Bob Augustine, the dean of graduate school division of

international programs, said he thought the people who attended

last year’s poetry reading experienced the liberal arts in an

international culture.

“(Students) thinking about language and culture is forever

changed,” he said. Augustine said students who had any

spare time to stop by the poetry reading.

She said some poetry from last year’s reading was original

work; however, some works were traditional to the student’s

country.

Also offered in conjunction with International Week is a

night full of ping pong and badminton at 7 p.m. today in

Student Recreation Center.