What is a World Cultures Day?
A World Cultures Day is a half or full day program designed for an entire school or grade, incorporating multiple classroom conversations with different speakers as well as intercultural activities.  You will present 4-6 times in different classrooms in one school throughout the day.

Where do the events take place?
In elementary, middle, junior high and senior high school classrooms of the Minneapolis/St. Paul Metro Area.  Some events also are conducted in rural Minnesota communities. 

What is the time commitment?
You can participate as often as your schedule and interest allow.  Simply attend ONE training workshop and then sign up for events you want to attend. 

Do I get paid?  Am I allowed to get paid?
You will receive an expense stipend for each presentation.  This is not considered payment and does not interfere with your visa requirements.  In addition, MIC will cover any additional expenses incurred throughout the day, including food and transportation. 

Is my English good enough? Do I need teaching experience?|
You do not need formal speaking experience.  You passed TOEFL, right?  You will engage in conversations with groups of children.  This is the most relaxed way to practice and improve your language proficiency.  You will be surprised how patient students are in classroom settings.

What do I talk about? Is there a topic or outline for the conversations?
During the training workshop you will learn about the Universals of Culture model as well as gain tools and ideas for speaking in the U.S. classroom.  The good news is you do not need to be an expert in your own culture—students and teachers want to hear your life experiences and a little bit about your culture – topics such as: music, sports, food, holidays, language, etc.  You can also talk about what it was like growing up in your culture. 

Do I get trained to speak in the classroom? 
Yes, you will attend a free training workshop that includes dinner and snacks, training materials, a sample presentation by an experienced classroom speaker, and networking time with other international people.  After attending a workshop, you will receive a complimentary 1-year membership.  Once you attend a workshop, you are not obligated to participate in the program.

Who is my audience?
You will have conversations with elementary [primary] through high school [secondary] students, generally between the ages of 5 and 18.  Each classroom has around 25-30 students.  Speakers describe the students as curious, interested, well-behaved and full of questions.

Do I need any cultural items or visual aids?
You will communicate directly with a teacher to decide whether visual aides or cultural items are needed for your conversation.  Your connection to students is often enhanced by engaging a variety of senses, but no specific material is required.

How do I get to schools?
You will travel to schools with MIC staff or volunteers.  If you want to drive, you will receive an additional expense stipend to cover your transportation costs.