Food and fun were on the menu at the International Student Organization's Peace Dinner Monday night.
Foods from countries such as Turkey, China, India and Nigeria lined the walls of the Student Center Ballroom as students filed around the building's top floor waiting to get in. The event was delayed 20 minutes as the multi-ethnic group steadily grew.
Once the doors opened, participants drew a ticket from a basket to determine which country they would sample. They then walked to the American table, where they picked up their plates and a few hot wings.
This table and the beverages, which consisted of Coca-Cola and the like, were some of the only domestic foods available. If students arrived wanting to eat, they had to branch out and try new things and chat with new people.
"This event is great for the student body," said Deborah Prickett, administrative support assistant to the director of International Student Life. "It gives them awareness of other cultures; their food, their lives. It brings the community together."
Tables covered the length of the ballroom, accommodating a number so large that one was almost forced to sit next to a person of a different background. Racial demographics and ages present were as varied as the foods they ate.
"The turnout has been fantastic," said Murali Dharan, president of ISO. "From this we hope that Americans can learn more about our cultures; Turkey, China, India and their cultures, as well as different ways of living."
The foods themselves proved how common many world cultures are by sharing dishes.
For instance, the American and Nigerian tables both served varieties of chicken wings. Nearly every table had some variation of rice, be it spicy, plain or in a rice pudding.
"It's always surprising what everyone has in common," Dharan said. "Many Americans never leave the States, so this is a good way for them to interact and expand their horizons."
Flags for all represented countries were spread through the room, both on banners and clothing.
Video showing sceneries and traditions of each country played at the head of the tables throughout the meal. The skyline of Hong Kong, the lakes of India and traditional Turkish dance were among the footage shown as participants sat down to eat.
Students manning their respective nationality's table, when requested, provided information regarding the background and significance of each dish.
ISO hosts events to further its goals of easing the transition into Auburn for international students and to promote diversity.
Annual happenings such as the talent show encourage American students to attend and interact with people of different races.
"It's open to all," Dharan said. "We want as many different backgrounds as possible to attend. We will have African dance, Turkish music and the like where people from different countries can showcase their countries' talents and be judged by other cultures. It's fun for everyone."
The ISO talent show will be in November.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
