2025 Session Descriptions

We are excited to welcome you to campus for Cornell World Languages Day. The day will be packed with fun activities around languages, cultures, and all things global. To structure your day, you will select one track during your online registration (each track has 3 sessions). The tracks are listed below, along with session descriptions. We look forward to meeting you on October 25!

WLD tracks

Session descriptions

Experience Africa through the Lens of Language Learning
You’ve probably heard “hakuna matata” “safari” and “simba.” Did you know these words and phrases are from an African language? In this session, we will practice greetings and simple phrases in Yoruba and Swahili. Greetings are essential to establish rapport in the African context. So, join us to find out what “kaarọ” “mama mi” or “bawo ni” mean. The session will also answer questions on what it means to learn an African language at a university. Be prepared to dance to African music!
 

From Memes to Meaning: Exploring the Arabic Language and Culture
Want to know more about the Arabic language and culture? Through memes and reels, this session dives into Arab identity, diversity, hospitality, customs, women, food, and the Arabic language. We’ll also uncover what certain animals, expressions, and traditions symbolize in Arab culture.
 

Amaze your Peers. Baffle your Elders. Learn ASL!
Gain a superpower learning American Sign Language (ASL)! You could use ASL underwater, sign in noisy environments, through windows, and occasionally in secret. Did you know there are over 140 signed languages around the world? You will learn some ASL basics including fingerspelling, greetings, some common phrases, and play games popular in the Deaf community.

Bangladesh: Land of Cultural History and Natural Beauty 
Did you know that the colonial history of Bangladesh has intriguing parallels with the revolutionary period of the American colonies? Come explore the stories of the people who helped shape modern South Asia—culturally and politically. Discover the diverse cuisines and vibrant festivals that define Bangladeshi life. You’ll also get a chance to learn how to write your name in Bangla, pick up a few useful phrases, and even win fun prizes!

Oh, the Places You’ll Go! Languages = Superpowers (French)
Would you like to know how powerful languages can be? Places you never imagined they could take you? Are you ready to travel the world, discover new cultures, meet new friends? In this interactive session, meet Cornell students who experienced the powers of learning another language and find out how it has shaped their worldview. We will have fun with games and learn some interesting facts about the French language. À très bientôt!

The Great Italian Geo-Guessr Game
Ciao tutti e benvenuti! Join us for a guessing game to see beautiful views, win bragging rights, and, in the process, learn about the culture, history, and language of Italy! All countries have an amazing diversity of sights, geography, and places to visit, and Italy has such a wide range, from coasts to mountains to cities to castles. Try your hand at recognizing new places, using fun new words, and mapping the beauty of this unique country. Buona fortuna e ci vediamo presto!  

KPop Demon Hunters Dance Workshop
Learn some choreography from the hit movie KPop Demon Hunters! With the movie spreading Korean culture across the globe by becoming the most-watched original title in Netflix history, now is the perfect time to learn and practice some K-Pop moves! No prior dance experience is necessary, and we can’t wait to see you there!

Feel the Rhythm with Shimtah (Korean Drums)
Come and learn about Korean music before the era of K-Pop. It involves carefully coordinated movements and cues, beating of the drums, and hitting gongs of various sizes. Are you ready to make some music? 
 

The Secret of the Andes: Where do Llamas and Alpacas Come from?
Every mountain keeps a secret, and the llamas know it. In this interactive session, you will hear an ancient Quechua legend that tells how llamas and alpacas became the gentle guardians of the Andes. Along the way, you will learn basic Quechua words, explore the language’s deep connection with nature, and experience the sounds and symbols of Andean storytelling. Discover how culture, landscape, and language come together in this timeless tale from the heart of the mountains.

Languages of Southeast Asia: The Gameshow!
Have you ever wanted to test your knowledge on Jeopardy? Now you can with the Southeast Asian Language Gameshow! You will form small groups with your peers to compete in a Southeast Asian language themed gameshow. Race to seal in answers based on soundbites and pictures of character languages, as well as questions on geography, linguistic facts, and local demographics.

What is Study Abroad Anyway?
Have you ever thought about studying abroad? What does it actually look like? Why should you study abroad? Hear from students who have recently returned from studying abroad and learn about their experiences! In this session, we will also do an activity to help you think about what kind of study abroad opportunity could work best for you.

Turkish Delight: Revealing the Gems of Turkey’s Past and Present
Step aboard for an enchanting journey with “Turkish Delight” where you will have a delightful bite into Turkey’s captivating history and vibrant contemporary culture. This session unveils the hidden treasures of Türkçe while immersing you in the richness of Turkey’s past and present. Join us for a delectable adventure that promises to uncover the gems of Turkey’s heritage, spanning from Catalhoyuk to the Ottoman Empire. Get ready to savor the delights of Turkish language and culture!