On March 4, the four current Corbett scholars from Canada visited Western Washington University as part of CANADA WEEK. Julia, Amy, Leo and Parsa created and presented an engaging talk about their experiences as exchange students in the United States so far, and shared how their sense of Canadian identity has evolved. They explored how ideas of multiculturalism and national identity differ between the two countries, and shared some of their own histories as immigrants. The students also gave an overview of what might make Canada an exciting location for American students looking for international experience.
- Julia Lindsay introduces the group’s presentation: “Northern Neighbors: An afternoon with some Canadians.”
- The students included an acknowledgement of the Indigenous land on which WWU is located, and shared the language that their school (UBC) uses to do the same.
- Julia and Amy talk about what “makes Canada” recognizable to Americans.
- Amy and Parsa listen as fellow student Leo explains some of the career opportunities in Canada that might be particularly attractive to young Americans.
- The Corbett scholars brought a classic Canadian delicacy to share – TimBits!
- UW and WWU were represented at the talk by program manager for the Corbett Exchange, Marion Ferguson (UW), director of the Center for Canadian-American Studies (WWU), Christina Keppie, and Natalie Baloy, associate director of Transboundary & Place-based Initiatives (WWU).
- Canada House at WWU was a perfect location to hold this talk.
- The views of Bellingham (and beyond – squint for Canada!) from WWU are especially stunning when the weather is clear!