Join a Cross-Cultural Discussion Group to make new friends, expand your worldview, and engage in meaningful conversations with other UMN students!
Applications are due Friday, January 31 at 12PM CST!
Apply to be a CCDG Participant Apply to be a CCDG Facilitator
The Cross-Cultural Discussion Group (CCDG) Program is an opportunity to meet other UMN students from different countries, backgrounds, majors, and colleges in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. During a group’s weekly discussion, you will share cross-cultural experiences and reflect on various topics including food, friendships, relationships, taboos/stereotypes, culture shock, educational systems around the world, work-life balance, and much more.
Who can join?
All UMN students, both international and domestic, graduate, professional and undergraduate, are encouraged to join a Cross-Cultural Discussion Group. We also welcome UMN faculty and staff to apply to be group facilitators.
How does it work?
You can apply to join either as a Participant or a Facilitator.
As a participant, you will commit 1-2 hours every week to participate in a cross-cultural discussion group, either in-person or virtually. It is a great option if you want to meet people from diverse backgrounds, exchange perspectives on cross-cultural issues, and grow your support network.
As a facilitator, you will commit 2-3 hours every week to co-plan and co-lead weekly meetings with your assigned CCDG group, either in-person or virtually. Because this role comes with leadership responsibilities, prior cross-cultural experience and strong organizational and communication skills are highly recommended.
It is our priority that you are matched to a group that works best with your schedule and is as diverse as possible.
How do I apply?
For Spring 2025, we will have both in-person and virtual (over Zoom) groups. We will decide how many there will be and when they will be based on demand and availability of our facilitators.
Keep in mind that the format of a group may change throughout the semester depending on members’ needs and commitments. For example, an in-person group may decide to meet virtually due to weather conditions. A virtual group may also decide to meet in-person to do a social activity that all members are interested in, such as a Potluck.
In-person groups will generally be 2 hours long, including a brief break. Zoom groups will be 90 minutes long, including a brief break. Groups will start in mid-late February and end in early May.
To become a Spring 2025 CCDG Facilitator, apply HERE.
To become a Spring 2025 CCDG Participant, apply HERE.
Questions?
Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions and/or requests.
