Prince George, B.C. – There was a cake cutting to celebrate a special milestone at CNC this morning.

For the first time, there are over 500 international students enrolled at the college. Barbara Old, director of international education, said the students represent about 25 different countries.

“We are proud of the impact the students make on the college and our community,” she said. “They actively participate in community events, host community events such as Chinese New Year and Diwali and volunteer with community organizations.”

She said 503 international students are enrolled at CNC this year – a 17.5% increase over the 428 students enrolled last fall.

In fact, since the fall of 2010 when 227 were registered, there has been a 121% increase in the number of international students at the college.

So, what does Old attribute the increase to?

“An overall increase in Canada and because of the relationships we have built up over the years.”

Today’s cake cutting is part of International Education Week at CNC which wraps up with a Diwali celebration at the Prince George Civic Centre tomorrow night.