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Friday Photo: 17 countries, 44 smiles

Story and photos by Matthew Bin Han Ong, Comm '12

Sophomore transfer student Premnath Ananthan from Malaysia marveled at winter's white wonderland upon arriving in Milwaukee. A day later, he wrote on Facebook — "Snow may look friendly, but it kills you intentionally", generating a plethora of comments and "likes" from friends back home.

But ice and subfreezing temperatures didn't stop the economics major from enjoying his first week in the United States or joining the orientation organized by the Office of International Education.

"The orientation is designed to provide international students with a warm welcome," says OIE Assistant Director Susan Whipple. "Many departments on campus help us accomplish this. The Athletics Department certainly helped by giving MU winter hats to the newcomers."

Students hailing from as far as Ecuador, Hong Kong and Denmark were treated to panel discussions with current students, shopping trips, and many interactive activities addressing academic, social and cultural issues.

"The diverse perspectives that international students bring to campus enhance the educational experience of all Marquette students," Whipple says.