Intercultural Studies & Languages Department

Recipe for a Global Education
In our globalized world, it's no longer exceptional to be bilingual - or to be up on world events. It's a necessity. Especially at a university whose vision is to prepare world servants. Here in the department of Intercultural Studies and Languages at North Central University, we believe a global perspective is foundational to a thoroughly Pentecostal education - after all, we serve and follow a global God (around the world). That's why we are thrilled when alumni like Simon Trautmann ('04), a TEFL major, snaped up every opporunitiy he had at NCU to become globally competent.

The ICS departments' cupboards are lavishly stocked with healthy ingredients for a robust global education. As for how to put them all together, we asked Simon for his recipe.

RECIPE FOR A GLOBAL EDUCATION
1 radical experience with the Holy Spirit
2 years teaching 25 middle school boys at Cedar Valley
6 weeks internship in China
1 major in Teaching English as a Foreign Language
3 years studying Chinese
2 years in Amnesty International
5 months attending an inner city church
1 year in Fort Meyers Masters Commission
2 months in the Dominican Republic on a short term mission trip
2 years working in China for International Schools of China
1.5 hours per day of Minnesota Public Radio
9 months tutoring Somali refugees at Ubah School
A generous sampling of missions conventions and speakers
At least 10 courses with an international perspective
Plenty of patience and compassion
One large sense of humor
Passion to taste.

Toss all ingredients in one very large mixing bowl and agitate daily with prayer and service

Chef's note: The goal of a global education is to develop an understanding of what God is doing outside your culture and acquire a skill that enables you to join in His work outside your home culture. God has used all of these ingredients to shape me into the person I am. I am not suggesting that you go out and do the same things I've done; if you are more interested in the Middle East than China, go there instead. But whatever you do, don't leave out extensive language learning. Languages not only give you a window to the heart of a people, they give you a window to the world.

Currently Simon Trautmann is studying for his Juris Doctorate at St. Thomas University and works part time as a grant writer for NCU. Simon hopes to join International Justice Mission for a 3 month clerkship in 2007.

Typical Four-Year Program - ICS

Faculty
All you ever wanted to know (and then some) about our full-time and adjunct faculty.

Student Missions Fellowship (SMF)
SMF is an opportunity for missions-minded students to connect with each other and promote missions on campus.

Summer Trips and Internships
Read about past trips, download forms, share your experiences, and get important info on upcoming opportunities.

Alumni
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Resources
Here you'll find a variety of helps to enrich your experience as an Intercultural Studies student.