Embracing Diversity: Celebrating International Students at Mizzou
"Celebrating International Students at Mizzou" curated by the Student Unions offers a window into the lives and experiences of individuals from around the globe who have made Mizzou their home away from home, that not only showcases the vibrant tapestry of international students but also encapsulates the spirit of diversity and inclusion that defines the Mizzou community.
The exhibition draws from the rich archives of the Savitar yearbook, presenting a kaleidoscope of memories, achievements, and milestones. Each photograph, and each anecdote, serves as a testament to the profound impact of international students on the fabric of Mizzou's academic and social landscape. For those unable to visit the exhibition in person, fear not, for this blog aims to transport you through the vivid narratives and captivating imagery that grace the lower-level cases of the Student Center.
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| Celebrating International Students at Mizzou on the ground floor of the Student Center. |
Our expedition commences in the late 19th century, a period shadowed by the passage of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, a draconian measure severely restricting Chinese immigration to the United States. However, against this backdrop of exclusion, MU emerges as a beacon of inclusivity, welcoming non-black international students as early as 1900.
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| Hin Wong, 1910 Savitar. |
Hin Wong, a Mizzou student from China, was the first international student to graduate from MU's Journalism School. Wong later served as Chair of the Department of Journalism at Yenching University in Beijing, China. Notably, Yenching's Journalism program was sponsored by and modeled after Missouri's.
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| The Cosmopolitan Club translated the university song “Old Missouri” into 8 languages, including English, for the 1910 Savitar. |
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The maelstrom of World War II ushers in a paradoxical era
for international students. Allied involvement in the war leads to the gradual
acceptance of Chinese students, culminating in the repeal of the Chinese
Exclusion Act. However, Japanese students face adversity, grappling with forced
expulsion and internment.
In the post-war era, the United States ascended as a global superpower, heralding initiatives like the Fulbright Scholarships and the establishment of the International Center at MU. Yet, the specter of the Cold War looms large, shaping the contours of international relations and academic exchange.
Amidst the tumult of geopolitical upheavals, cultural exchange thrives at MU. The MU Cosmopolitan Club's "Nations on Parade" art exhibit and the Inter-American Club serve as conduits of understanding and solidarity among diverse student communities. However, the specter of political tension manifests in fluctuating international student enrollments, reflective of diplomatic vicissitudes.
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As the 20th century unfolds, MU reaffirms its commitment to diversity and inclusion with the founding of the Multicultural Center and the inauguration of the Multicultural Extravaganza. Yet, challenges persist, with events like the Gulf War and the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting international student mobility and activities.
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| Photo from International Center |
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| photo from the Missouri International Student Council |
As we stand at the precipice of the 21st century, MU continues to embrace a global ethos, attracting students from over 118 countries. In 2023,1,476 students came to MU from 118 countries. International activities from 2020 through 2022 were significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and related travel restrictions. In 2019/20, the largest proportion was Chinese, with 837, but in 2023/24 there were only 297.
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While the blog offers a glimpse into the world of
international students at Mizzou, there's nothing quite like experiencing it
firsthand. For those who have the opportunity, we encourage you to step into
the Student Center, to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of our
student unions. Allow yourself to be captivated by the stories that unfold
before you, to gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures
that make up our university community. For within its hallowed confines lies
not just a chronicle of the past, but a testament to the enduring legacy of
global engagement and academic camaraderie at MU.
Note: if you are interested in the history of individuals,
please see our past blogs:
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