ATHENS, Ohio -- Warm weather making you want to get out and broaden your horizons? Then maybe a diversity training retreat with films and creative activities is just what you need.

Beginning April 25, the Division of Student Affairs and S*T*A*R*S (Students Teaching About Racism in Society) are sponsoring a three-day retreat designed to teach students effective cross-cultural communication skills and leadership techniques.

The retreat is great for students who plan on working in international business or wish to gain better self-awareness of the cultural differences that lie among different groups of people.

"The goal of the retreat is to help students gain cross-cultural competency through activities in basic communication, elevated listening and student involvement in culturally-based situations," said Ohio University psychologist Susan Young.

The goals of the retreat are to have students walk away with life changing experiences and make them feel safe and confident enough to walk up to any individual, regardless of cultural differences, and strike up a conversation.

The event is free, however, a mandatory $10 deposit will be collected and returned at the end of the retreat. Interested students must sign up for the retreat by Tuesday, April 22.

For more information, call Susan Young at (740) 593-1616 or pick up an application at the Counseling and Psychological Services Office in Hudson Health Center.