The coat drive proved to be a success, with International Student Services still holding two large totes of coats after distributing to current international students and others in need. These remaining coats will assist incoming students who join the university in the future.
“It was very successful. We had a lot of coats come in, and they’re still coming in. So, people are still donating. And then in January, we’ll have new students come in. They’ll be able to pick from the litter,” said Julia Baer, director of international student services.
Baer stated that she will continue to accept coat donations for international students in Massman 3, Office 14, ensuring ongoing support for those in need.
International students shared that the drive was impactful, noting how difficult it can be to truly understand the realities of a Midwest winter until experiencing it firsthand.
“What I’ve learned throughout my experiences at different schools is students think they have the right coat or that they’ve brought the right clothes, but a lot of times they don’t,” Baer said.
For those whose only experience with winter comes from TV, icy rain, freezing temperatures and slushy sidewalks can be a shock compared to idyllic scenes portrayed on screen.
“It was depressing. The movies definitely made me expect nice white fluffy snow every day until the sun and spring came along. Instead, it was dark, gray, and soggy for the most of it,” said Dhalil Belko, an international student from Rwanda.
The surplus of donations and mission of the event reflects the generosity and strong sense of community at Rockhurst. With such an overwhelming response in its inaugural year, the coat drive shows promise of becoming an annual tradition.
In addition to the coat drive, International Student Services also held its first International Education Week from Nov. 18-22, aiming to broaden students’ horizons and deepen their appreciation for global cultures. The week featured a variety of events, such as information tables, panel discussions and cultural activities. Highlights included cuisine from Spain, Egypt, Belize, Rwanda and India in the cafeteria, a meditation session and a panel on refugee experiences.
The week helped celebrate the richness and diversity of the world, encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones and engage with new perspectives beyond their usual experiences.
“I want students to be inspired to travel. I want them to just learn something unique of a country or a language or a culture that they didn’t before,” Baer said.
These initiatives reflect Rockhurst’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus. From providing warmth through the coat drive to encouraging cultural exploration during International Education Week, the university is ensuring all students feel supported. By promoting awareness of diverse cultures and perspectives, Rockhurst is preparing students for success in an interconnected world.
