From Nepalese to Russian, students from a variety of backgrounds gathered together on Sept. 9 at the Campus Christian House to share and celebrate their cultures.
"Through eating food, we can share our culture and get to know each other," Osamv Sahara, a student from Japan, said.
The event was sponsored by the Christian Student Foundation and was free of charge and open to everyone. Campus Minister Joe Lieway organized the dinner, which is held once per semester.
"What we try to do is to help international students feel welcome in the community and at Ball State," Lieway said. "The goal is to let international students know we value their culture and to let them know that they can contribute to society."
Another purpose of the event was to provide students with social opportunities.
"The goal was outreach - getting to know people," Melinda Powers, an International Ministry Volunteer, said.
Denis Morozov, a student from Russia, said the event was important for students such as himself.
"I would like to meet other international students," Morozov said. "Communication is very important. It's good to find people you can identify with +â-¡- people with the same problems."
The food consisted of traditional cuisine prepared by students from Indonesia, Japan and Nepal. The Christian Student Foundation provided funding, and students did all of the cooking.
"I've spent three years at Ball State, and this is my third year to help out with this event," Takanobu Takashina, a student from Japan, said. "This time, we made Japanese style curry rice, Nikujaga [beef stew] and sushi. Everybody enjoys doing this."
The Indonesian student group prepared chicken sate, a dish from Madura. Joyce Hiendarto, a student from Indonesia, said the dinner was meant to introduce students to the international aspects of Ball State.
"We want to welcome everyone and give them a taste of the international activity and atmosphere at Ball State," Hiendarto said.
From eating good food to exchanging culture, the international dinner served an important purpose for Bhavana Mokha, a student from India.
"The food was very good, authentic," Mokha said. "But it was important because it fostered diversity. It made you feel wanted."
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