Illinois International’s Global and Intercultural Learning (GIL) workshops and trainings serves as a campus-wide resource for advancing global understanding, building global competence, and strengthening intercultural communication across the Illinois community. Through research-informed workshops, professional learning sessions, and collaborative initiatives, GIL supports students, scholars, faculty, and staff as they navigate today’s interconnected world.
GIL brings together three coordinated learning pathways tailored to different audiences:
- GROW Workshops for students
- GUIDE Sessions for faculty, staff, and scholars
- Names Across Cultures Trainings for any member of the Illinois community
Together, these programs foster the skills and mindsets needed to communicate effectively across cultures, engage respectfully with diverse perspectives, and contribute to a globally connected campus.
GIL Goals
- Build intercultural awareness and understanding of the diversity of cultures and identities represented at the university
- Equip students with the skills to thrive in academic, professional, and multicultural environments
- Support faculty, staff, and scholars in creating inclusive and globally informed learning spaces
- Strengthen the university’s commitment to internationalization and global engagement
- Provide accessible, high-quality learning opportunities grounded in intercultural research and best practices
Explore Trainings
GROW Workshops
Designed for both domestic and international students, the Global and Intercultural Readiness Workshops develop participant knowledge, skills, and confidence to engage successfully across cultures.
GUIDE Sessions
Designed for all faculty, staff, and scholars, the Global Understanding and Intercultural Development & Engagement sessions strengthen professional skills needed to work effectively across cultures and support the university’s international community.
Names Across Cultures Training
The global names training series, Names Across Cultures, fosters an inclusive and respectful campus environment through name pronouncing training and knowledge building around the cultural significance of naming practices.