Connect at the Couch
The Culture Couch Series is a place to engage in cross-cultural understanding. The symbol of a couch reflects the casual and comfortable nature that we come together with in this student-led weekly series.
Each session is uniquely crafted by student volunteers who take on the role of hosts and share aspects of their culture with their peers.
- Tuesdays from 5 - 6pm (Fall and Spring Semesters)
- Building 255 - First Floor Learning Commons
The evening often consists of sampling traditional foods, sharing music and engaging in conversation. By attending, we can gain more understanding about the world and about each other, directly from the lens of our diverse community of Vancouver Island University students.
Stay tuned for spring sessions!
Our VIU community of students has amazing stories and perspectives to share. If you are interested in joining us to host a future Culture Couch Series event, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Mitch Miyagawa by email at mitch.miyagawa@viu.ca, or drop-in to Building 255.
Here are some questions to consider:
What aspect of your culture or perspective do you wish to share?
How do you want to share it?
Students can share their stories in a variety of ways. Examples include food sampling or demonstrations, presentations, dance instruction, storytelling, language sharing or exchanging, instrument or music exhibiting ... or a combination of these and other creative ideas.
What supplies will you need to make your vision happen?
There is a budget of $50 per event. We'll work with you to plan and also gather the supplies you need. We require the detailed receipts from any purchases made.
How much time will it require for preparation?
Consider your course schedule and access to kitchen facilities, etc. when planning your vision your Culture Couch Session. We'll work with you to plan and execute and have a number of volunteers who are also available to help.
These are a few of the topics shared and cultures explored at past Culture Couch sessions:
Spring
- Venezuela
- Japan
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Bob Marley's Birthday
- Korea & PyeongChang Olympics
- Everything about Maple Syrup
- Italy
- China
- Persian New Year
- Vietnam
- Trinidad, Jamaica & Belize
The Culture Couch Series is a collaborative project, between World VIU Faculty of International Education and VIU Residence and the ResLife team.
Visit us in Building 255, International Education or contact Mitch Miyagawa, Intercultural Program Coordinator, at mitch.miyagawa@viu.ca