2026 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 as part of your online registration (each track has 3 sessions). The tracks are listed below, along with session descriptions. We look forward to seeing you on October 24!

WLD tracks

Session descriptions

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!

Crazy Consonants and Curious Characters: Exploring the Croatian Language 
Discover the unique character and rich history of the Croatian language! Located in southeastern Europe, this small country is home to a complicated, yet beautiful language. Be prepared to get your tongue twisted trying to pronounce everyday Croatian words (some of which have no vowels at all!) and use your decoding skills to explore and create with the historical Glagolitic alphabet!

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!

Discover Gayogo̱hó:nǫˀ: The Original Language of Our Region
Did you know that Cornell is located on the traditional homelands of the Gayogo̱hó:nǫˀ (Cayuga Nation), one of the Six Nations of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy? Discover the language and culture of the Gayogo̱hó:nǫˀ people, learn a few words and phrases, and explore what makes this Indigenous language unique. Find out why languages are so important to cultural identity and how communities are working to keep them thriving for future generations. 

Jump to Indonesia and Save the River Dolphin!
Ready to jump, speak, and make a difference? Team up based on the zodiac elements and "jump" to Indonesia by competing in Lompat Tali, a traditional game where players leap over a rubber rope raised from easy heights to nearly impossible ones. Then learn how to greet Indonesians and introduce yourself in Bahasa, skills you can use if you travel to Bali or Kutai next summer! Finally, hear stories from Kutai and work with your group to brainstorm how to save the endangered Pesut Mahakam river dolphin, with only about 60 left. Come ready to jump, speak, and help save a species!

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 Traditional Drums)
Learn about Korean music before K-Pop! From rhythmic patterns, beating of the drums, and hitting gongs of varying sizes, feel the dynamic rhythms of Korea through carefully coordinated movements and cues. Are you ready to make some music?  
 

Carnaval! Celebrate Brazil in Color
Step into the color, music, and energy of Brazilian Carnaval! Learn a few words and expressions in Portuguese, discover how Carnaval is celebrated in different parts of Brazil, and explore some of the music, traditions, and costumes that make each celebration unique. Then get creative and design your own colorful Carnaval mask to take home. Bring your imagination and get ready to celebrate!

What is Study Abroad Anyway?
Have you ever thought about studying abroad? What does it actually look like? Why should you study abroad? Did you know you could learn a new language while abroad, use your time abroad to develop your language skills, or perhaps even take all your classes in another language? Hear from students who have recently returned from studying abroad and consider the possibilities! The world can be your classroom.

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!