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| The side of the free travel cup. |
America is known as the world's "melting pot" - a mixture of people from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Avila University is a microcosm of that, with students from Saudi Arabia to Australia. The Ethnic Food and Culture Celebration is a way for students to step to the other side of the world without leaving campus. It is also a great opportunity to better understand their peers, by exploring foreign cultures in a fun and social environment. The celebration included music, food, traditions, and more from a wide variety of countries, such as India and China.
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| The Ethnic Food and Culture Celebration. |
As you first walk in to the celebration, you are greeted by smiles and a free travel cup with "Live in Harmony 2012" emblazoned on the side. This statement seems to summarize the theme of the celebration perfectly. Admission is free and once you are inside Marian Center Dining Room, there is color everywhere! Each group of international students set up beautiful displays with information about their country and culture, including yummy food for their fellow students to try. There was even a mariachi band, who entertained students with music originating from Jalisco, Mexico. The band, who was from Kansas City Music Services, said that they enjoyed playing and singing for the students. A small audience gathered around to enjoy their performance. For a video of one of their songs, see below.
The Ethnic Food and Culture Celebration is an annual event at Avila University and each year, it seems to draw in more and more students. Danielle McMillin, an Avila University senior, said that she has attended the Ethnic Food and Culture Celebration every year that she has been at Avila University. "It's great food, and I love supporting my friends who are international students," she said. There were also a few activities you could participate in, such as having the Saudi Arabian students write your name in their native language. Overall, the celebration is a great way to meet new people, learn about other cultures, and eat some pretty amazing food!
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| A line of eager students waiting to try some food! |
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| The Saudi Arabian students displays. |
The Mariachi Band from KC Music Services.
