The International Student Association (ISA) held its first event of the semester on October 15, the Mix and Mingle. It was a stellar way to break the ice, have fun, and learn more about different cultures.
Held in Branch Hall in the second floor’s open space at 6 p.m., the Mix and Mingle was a gathering of not just students, but also professors and faculty as well. The meeting had a large number of attendants from clubs and organizations like Cultura LatinX, the African American Male Initiative, and ABAC’s various sports teams, such as the tennis team.
Attendants were able to compete in a four-player game of MarioKart 8 or a game of cards. The most prominent activity, however, was just friendly conversation that was rampant throughout the room. As the students mingled, the ISA played classic records and provided snacks and refreshments for guests.
“It was very welcoming to me and was a culturally enriching experience,” said senior animal science major Jay Robinson, a student originally from Jamaica.
Similarly, Benjamin Ranby-Al, junior rural community development major from New Zealand, said, “I think it’s good for people to spread out and meet new people, especially for them to feel like a part of the environment here.”
This event was the first event put together and managed by an entirely new group of ISA officers.
The new president, Ashton Fulp, was impressed by the turnout of the event and claimed it was a success. She stated, “My goal as the new president of the International Student Association is to contribute my time and effort into building a community within ABAC where anyone can find a sense of belonging.”
“With a committed officer team in place, I feel hopeful for the club’s growth and success in bringing in new members,” said Daniela Leon, ISA’s new secretary.
The advisors for ISA, Dr. Chatterjee, Dr. Njoroge, and Dr. You, were also equally proud of the team and grateful for the number of attendants.
“We are looking forward to seeing all the amazing things this club will do in the future!” said Dr. Chatterjee.
Dr. You added, “Dr. Brundage and other professors made the event even more meaningful, showing their genuine support and commitment to fostering inclusivity and community on campus is evident.”
Additionally, Dr. Kramer, the Dean of Students, attended and was proud of what he was able to witness and take part in. “A more diverse college campus (and society for that matter) can help to enhance the learning environment where critical thinking can be fostered, issues can be viewed from varying perspectives, and open mindedness can be promoted,” Dr. Kramer said.
While ISA is not a new club, it is the people that create the associated experiences. Based on the new officers’ debut event, students of all nationalities can definitely hope for more grand occasions to come.