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What drew you to the intercultural training programme in the first place? Why was it important to you? Which workshops have you attended?

I undertook an intercultural training programme because I wanted to develop new skills, particularly in communicating with people from different backgrounds. I first completed the Intercultural Communication Workshop, where I familiarised myself with the concept of intercultural communication by exploring a range of case studies and scenarios.

Upon completion, I became interested in exploring the topic further and participated in the Intercultural Awareness Workshop. During this workshop, I met new people and took part in various interactive activities that helped us better understand each other’s perspectives and gain awareness of how our own cultural values can shape perceptions towards others. It was important to me to participate in these workshops to develop skills and confidence that will support my communication with others in the future.

How has Warwick’s intercultural training programme helped or supported you?

The Intercultural Training Programme helped me develop the confidence and skills needed to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds. Through activities, I strengthened my active listening skills, increased my awareness of my own biases, and improved my ability to adapt to different situations and individuals. These skills are essential for meaningful conversations, avoiding misunderstandings, and fostering positive relationships.

What was the most memorable or important thing you learned from the intercultural training programme?

One of the most memorable experiences was an activity in which two teams were given different instructions. The groups were then instructed to work together, which initially created some confusion. Members of the other group behaved in the way that seemed unusual to us, for example, by asking extraordinary questions. However, during our interaction, we realised that we have been given different instructions, representing different beliefs and values. This activity told me the importance of being attentive to details and recognising that people may think and act differently from us. We need to respect diverse perspectives, value others’ viewpoints, and find compromises to avoid conflict and foster harmonious interaction.

How has the training helped you navigate life as a student at Warwick / your career?

The intercultural training programme has made me more confident in starting conversations with new people, especially those from different cultural backgrounds. I am now more aware of my own biases and how they can influence my perceptions, which has encouraged me to be more attentive and considerate of others’ views. These skills will be especially valuable in my future career as a psychologist. Being aware of my own biases and communicating effectively with people from diverse cultures will help me to provide inclusive support, reduce the risk of biases in diagnosis, and ultimately lead to better outcomes for patients.

Why should other students get involved with the programme?

I believe that regardless of your background, course of study, or age, everyone should attend at least one of the intercultural training programmes, because it not only expands your skill set, but it also equips you with essential skills that will help you long after university. It will help you become more knowledgeable about different cultures, more confident in communicating with others, and more respectful of diverse views and values. By developing strong intercultural awareness, you can contribute to making this world a better place to live in, challenge discrimination and reduce conflicts that often are the result of lack of understanding of others’ values and needs.