Reestablishing the International Club with Jesia Hossian Choity

Taylor Whitaker - Staff Writer

Last Friday, the International Club re-established itself on the Monmouth College campus. The Courier attended the reopening and met with President Jesia Hossian Choity, a sophomore neuroscience major and international studies minor. The event was kicked off by an introductory presentation from Choity followed by an indulgence in Indian food and beverages.

What is your background and what inspired you to reintroduce the International Club to campus?

When I first arrived on campus, I noticed the absence of an active International Club. For a liberal arts college like Monmouth, which does have a diverse student body and promotes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), this seemed like a significant gap. I felt it was important to take the initiative to revive the club, as it provides a platform for international students to represent their cultures and share their experiences. It’s also a way for the entire campus community to learn about and appreciate the diversity of cultures present here.

What are your future goals for the International Club?

I am focused on building a strong, collaborative team that will lead the club effectively for years to come. Additionally, I am excited to begin implementing the programs and events we have planned.

What is your vision for the club by year end?

With the semester coming to a close, our primary focus will be on establishing a solid team and collaborating with other DEI organizations on campus. Since our reopening event happened later than anticipated, this will be our main goal for the remainder of the year.

What do you want the students to know about this opportunity?

I want students to understand that joining the International Club is a valuable opportunity to engage with and explore the diversity on campus. Our club emphasizes two key areas: cultural exchange and educational and networking opportunities. These focus areas will not only broaden students' knowledge about different cultures but also help develop skills that will benefit them in the long term.

What can students look forward to in the future with the club?

We are planning a series of events where each will spotlight a different country. These events will give students a chance to explore and learn about various cultures right here on campus. Additionally, we are working on collaborations with other colleges, which we believe students will find exciting and enriching.