International Week

A lot of preparation was put into International Week, but it was well worth it in the end. Having never experienced an International Week at Shawnigan, I did not know what to expect. I was certainly not expecting to play a competitive series of dodgeball games or dance a Scottish jig in front of the entire school. Whatever I was expecting, it did not prepare me for the immense feeling of motivation demonstrated all week – the motivation to show everyone why each group was unique. I enjoyed all the creativity and the time and effort that went into every single one of the events throughout the week. The energy was almost overwhelming upon entering Marion Hall on Monday night for the food fair. A series of new smells welcomed us in, and a variety of tastes kept us there. Another favourite had to be the stage show. A lot of interesting talents were demonstrated on the stage, many of which were newly discovered after learning all of the different cultural activities associated with each nation. The excitement of International Week was in the air all week long, and it was enhanced greatly by the wonderful music from around the globe played in Marion hall, including an excellent performance from the concert band to entertain us all on Thursday. International Week is not only filled with entertainment, but with opportunities. We were lucky enough to have the opportunity to learn many new skills, from dancing the salsa to cooking Belgian waffles, and even some Chinese writing at the workshops. There is no question that International Week went beyond my expectations this year, and set new ones for years to come.

– Clark H., grade 10, Duxbury