And now for something completely different . . .

It was great to see the cover story on today’s Duke Chronicle about Duke grad Tzuo Hann Law from Malaysia and his epic bicycle trip to his hometown, Taiping. I remember looking on in disbelief and (I admit) skepticism as he detailed his post-graduation plans to bike through 4 continents by pointed in front of a world map hanging in International House.

Now after multiple countries, thousands of dollars raised for charities in Malaysia and an encyclopedia of witty and enthralling blog posts, Tzuo is biking the final leg of his journey. Check out the whole narrative on his blog, “Long Way Home”. At the link just scroll down for a day-by-day account.

Very inspiring stuff and we can’t wait until he is back at Duke promoting a lecture, book, movie etc.

If you are a first-year international student, it would be within reason for you to assume that the next American presidential election must be in the upcoming weeks — or even days. The only way to achieve additional media coverage on the current campaign and primary season would be to add more hours to the day.

Regardless, I always find it illuminating, and often sobering, to hear thoughts on the whole process and coverage from our international guests. The day after the Iowa caucus one student asked me, “So what is so important about Iowa?”

Although there are many things important about Iowa, I knew what he meant and struggled to find a good answer. (If you have an answer, feel free to respond.) It would be interesting to also hear other questions, thoughts, musings, and confusions from our international community about this whole process. Or on a more serious note, as international students, scholars, or just global citizens — what issues pertaining to this election are most important to you? Even though voting is closely tied to citizenship, with issues like climate change, global security and even health care being the most discussed topics, it seems clearer than ever before that everyone has a stake in these decisions.

For a straight forward, non-partisan explanation of the U.S. presidential election and an introduction to the candidates check out Project Vote Smart.

Regardless of religion or creed, the activity of Americans during the December holiday season seems fairly uniform, usually involving some reuniting with family and loved ones near or far. For international students the answer of what to do with this much deserved respite from classes and deadlines is rarely standard. Those who can afford the ever escalating costs of international travel will jump on the opportunity to connect with distant family members (And don’t think that even the slightest taste of familiar, family-prepared cuisine isn’t worth the price of airfare alone!). For others it means purchasing a cheaper domestic ticket and exploring a decidedly non-Carolinian U.S. location like New York, California, or Chicago for the brave chill-seekers. Others join a variety of family host programs that offer a more intimate glimpse into customs, relationships, and traditions surrounding Christmas and other holidays.

Finally there are those who by choice or not, find themselves in the monastery-like environment that is central campus for 3 weeks. Regardless the option or destination, it is a time for less imposed learning and exploration to take place. We invite you to share your holiday experiences, adventures and pondering with us when you return . . . Have a great break!

Does “why” really matter in the land of blogs and facebook and all other iterations of Web 2.0? Duke is at the forefront of a growing trend of campuses looking to “internationalize,” which has evidenced itself in the growing number of international students and scholars represented. (Take a glance at the International House Statistics)

This growth, along with a concentrated effort to engage all students in global awareness, outreach and service, means that there are exciting and evolving trends, policies, activities and challenges that are impacting and growing out of our international community. This blog will hopefully be one of many ways to capture the discourse that is shaping internationalization at Duke. We welcome comments that add to this conversation and help address the changing needs and nature of our global campus.

Welcome to the I-House Blog!