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Global Learning at Home

Global Learning at Home

You don’t need to leave the country to experience the world.
A diverse group of students walking together outdoors, engaged in conversation and smiling.

Travel the globe through an on-campus international experience

Global Learning at Home offers engaging virtual and on-campus opportunities that connect you with global perspectives—right here at TMU. These initiatives are designed to help you explore diverse cultures, worldviews, and knowledge systems without requiring international travel.

Through programs like International Education Week, Embassy Connect, and the Brown Bag Series, you’ll participate in dynamic cultural events, global dialogue, and international networking—right from campus. You can also take internationally focused courses, join virtual exchanges, and collaborate with peers and partners around the world through COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) projects.

By staying local and thinking globally, you’ll build intercultural awareness, enhance your academic and professional skills, and gain a deeper understanding of global issues that matter.

Explore the world. Stay local. Learn globally.

Two people smiling for a photo in front of a Toronto Metropolitan University step-and-repeat backdrop.

"Attending the Brown Bag Series during International Education Week opened my eyes to incredible authors and stories from around the world. It helped me to broaden my reading list and explore global perspectives through literature I might not have discovered otherwise."

- Abrahim Ahmad, Brown Bag Series

Choose your experience

Over 100 students attended the International Education Week celebrations in 2024

International Education Week

International Education Week is a global celebration highlighting the value of international education, research, and cultural exchange. During this exciting week, the TMU community is invited to participate in events and activities designed to expand your worldview and immerse you in diverse global cultures!

Here's what's in store:

  1. Workshops & Panels: Learn from advisors, faculty, and industry members to discover global study, live, work, and travel opportunities.

  2. Cultural Fairs: Experience the vibrant cutures of the world right here on campus.

  3. Networking: Connect with fellow students, faculty, and professionals from around the globe.

International Education Week, 2025
TMU Global booth at an event, with a representative speaking to a visitor.

International students, domestic students, staff, and faculty are welcome to explore the various global learning opportunities that TMU offers. Let's unite to celebrate the diversity and global perspectives that enrich our community!

International Education Week is celebrated in the third week of November every year. Stay tuned for more updates for #IEW25 and get ready to explore!

Registration announcement: Check out our events page (opens in new window)  for more details!

 

Embassy Connect

The Embassy Connect Program is an experiential global learning initiative that provides students with firsthand exposure to international diplomacy, global affairs, and cross-cultural engagement. Through guided visits to embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions within Toronto, students gain insight into the roles of foreign governments, international relations, and cultural exchange.

Program Objectives

  1. Enhance Global Awareness: Introduce students to the functions of embassies, diplomatic protocols, and international policies.

  2. Foster Cross-Cultural Understanding: Engage with diplomats, foreign service officers, and cultural representatives to gain insight into the histories, traditions, and global perspectives of various countries.

  3. Develop Professional & Academic Connections: Provide networking opportunities with international officials, policymakers, and professionals in global affairs.

  4. Encourage Civic & Global Engagement: Inspire students to think critically about international issues, global governance, and their role as global citizens.

Past Visits

  1. Netherlands Consulate: A group of 10 students had the opportunity to meet with consular officers who introduced us to the vibrant culture, traditions, and nature of the Netherlands.

  2. Italian Consulate: Dr. Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano, Provost and Vice-President, Academic, along with eight TMU students, visited the Italian Consulate, where they were warmly welcomed by an officer who shared Italy’s rich cultural heritage and highlighted programs fostering Canadian-Italian relations.

Group discussion at a Consulte with participants seated in a circle, engaging in conversation.

Upcoming Visits: Please look out for more Embassy Visits coming this fall!

 

International Brown Bag Series

The International Brown Bag Series is an informal yet impactful global learning initiative to foster cross-cultural dialogue, global awareness, and professional development. These lunchtime discussions provide a platform for students, faculty, and guest speakers to engage in meaningful conversations on international topics in a relaxed and inclusive setting. Members of our community bring their lunches ("brown bag" style) while gaining insights into global issues, cultural experiences, and international career pathways.

Program Objectives

  1. Promote Global Engagement: Encourage discussions on international affairs, cultural diversity, and global interconnectedness to foster a deeper understanding of the world.

  2. Foster Cross-Cultural Learning: Provide a space for individuals to share their personal experiences, research, and insights into different countries and cultures.

  3. Enhance Professional & Academic Development: Introduce students to international career opportunities, study abroad experiences, and global research collaborations.

  4. Encourage Informal and Inclusive Learning: Foster a welcoming and open dialogue and networking atmosphere.

A student sitting at a desk with a brown bag lunch and snacks in a classroom setting.

Stay tuned for information about this series in the winter this year!

Students seated around a conference table engaged in discussion during a meeting or workshop.

"One of the most memorable parts of my experience was attending the Brown Bag Series during TMU's first-ever International Education Week in 2024. It was such a meaningful opportunity to gather with fellow students and staff to explore books and stories that celebrate culture, identity, and diversity. "

- Tina Phan, Brown Bag Series, 2025

Students seated indoors with food, drinks, and yarn, engaging in a casual campus activity.

"The most memorable part of IEW was seeing students from all over campus come together to share their cultures, stories, and experiences. Whether it was through food, performances, or conversations, there was such a strong sense of community and curiosity."

- Isabelle Sim, International Education Week, 2025

Students gathered at a food table during a campus event, being served various dishes.

"With IEW happening again this year at TMU, I would encourage future students to take part in all events that they can and other cultural activities. These experiences offer valuable opportunities to meet new people, share stories, and gain new perspectives on culture and diversity."

- Ryan Allen-Hallam, Embassy Connect, 2025