Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Top 3 reasons to join Leeds Beckett's Global Week
I’m Maia, I have studied both my BA Theatre and Performance, and MSc Journalism at Leeds Beckett. In this blog I’ll be talking about my experience attending Leeds Beckett’s Global Week and my top three reasons why I think it’s great.
What is Global Week?
It’s a week dedicated to highlighting the amazing ways that students can incorporate global experiences as part of your course, as well as celebrating the cultural diversity and heritage of our students and staff. Global Week is being held from 14 – 18 February on both City and Headingley campuses, and is open to all students. As someone who was born and raised in Leeds, getting involved in the event has opened my eyes to the different lifestyles and societies within our uni and the city as a whole. Here’s some of the reasons why I’ve enjoyed participating, and think you should check it out.
Me and other students during Global Week
1. Celebrate the diversity of our campuses
Leeds Beckett University is home to students and staff from many different cultures and countries, and Global Week is a great way to celebrate that. It is dedicated to highlighting the culturally rich community that we’re all a part of. It’s a chance to share our traditions with each other through cultural showcases, fashion shows and performances. This is the first Global Week being held on-campus since 2019, and I’m so excited to attend the events again! My favourite event from two years ago had to be the international fashion show, which was held in the Students’ Union. It was amazing (and quite entertaining) to see staff and students modelling traditional outfits from countries around the world, from German lederhosen to Vietnamese ao dai!
Staff and students during Global Week
2. Find out about studying or volunteering abroad
Global opportunities can be a life-changing experience. During Global Week, I was able to speak to staff and students about studying abroad for the semester or over summer as part of my course. I didn’t realise that I could join a relevant programme at a university outside the UK, and the credits would count towards my LBU degree. While I didn’t choose to study abroad, I have friends who did – and they said it’s the most rewarding experience they’ve ever had!
I also found out about opportunities to volunteer overseas during breaks, or even the option to complete an international summer school course. I think these opportunities can help everyone gain new skills which will make you more employable, make new friends, and immerse you in another culture and country.
My friend Tamara on her study abroad semester in San Diego
3. Check out events in between your lecturers
There are many exciting things to get involved in on campus during Global Week. In previous years, when I’ve had some time in between lectures or needed a break from writing essays, I’ve gone online to view the Global Week schedule and see what’s happening near me on campus. There’s no better way to break up my day than with live performances, food tastings, or meeting people at a Global Café. This year I might check out a language taster session at Headingley campus – I’ve always wanted to try learning a new language.
Me and some friends during Global Week
It’s so great to experience new cultures. From trying amazing new cuisines to being educated on different traditions and festivals, Global Week highlights the individuality, the importance of identity and cultural respect that exists within Leeds Beckett University.
The event presents all the fascinating and beautiful cultures of our university, as well as giving all students a chance to expand our global experiences as part of our studies. Visit leedsbeckett.ac.uk/globalvillage for the full schedule of events.
