Multicultural opportunities celebrated at WSU

The 45th Annual Global Festival and Study Abroad Fair took over Gullen Mall from 10:30am to 2:00pm on Sept. 23. Students were given the opportunity to experience a vast variety of foods and learn about foreign customs through Wayne State’s cultural organizations. The study abroad office was on site promoting the various travel and research opportunities available throughout the year.

“It is an opportunity to see other cultures and get a taste of the international cuisine without traveling a few thousand miles away. Also, as a college student, eating pizza gets boring. This is an opportunity to try something new, like chicken biryani or golumpki,” said Yuliya Harris, events and marketing coordinator for the Office of International Students and Scholars & Study Abroad Office.

Students at Gullen Mall were able to treat their stomachs to a buffet that spanned from Sri Lanka to Bangladesh to Saudi Arabia. The Filipino Society prepared sticks to show off the tinikling dance, while batik shawls and headdresses were on sale nearby. There were also informational booths advertising trips to Munich, Korea, New Zealand and more.

“Many students come to WSU not knowing that we have a Study Abroad office, or thinking that the programs are extremely expensive and unattainable to them,” said Harris. “At the fair, people see the actual costs. Many of the programs will count as a general university requirement and have scholarships. When they come to a realization that study abroad programs are much more accessible for them, the excitement that builds with that realization is probably priceless for me.”

Harris emphasized the importance of promoting openness at the fair. She said leaving your comfort zone and seeking out different food, cultures and landscapes can help you spark new interests in yourself and grow.

“It feels like it’s a really fun event with a huge sense of community, especially for international students. You can really get to know people,” said Melissa Heredia, a sophomore majoring in computer science. “I’ve never had Sri Lankan food before today… learning more about different cultures is probably the most exciting thing.”

Representatives from the various cultural booths were excited to see what their neighbors were offering.

“My favorite part is just seeing all of the different countries that are represented and the study abroad tables. Just to see how really multicultural Wayne State actually is,” said Karyna Sitkowski, Wayne State’s Slavic Club President, as she set up a “Slavic Sweet” table featuring Danishes, poppy seed bread and strudels.

Although students were able to enjoy bits and pieces of other countries being served up to them on plates, the stories being exchanged by students who have experienced other cultures through WSU study abroad programs tempted the cultural appetites of their peers even more.

Trips can be tailored to students’ interests and majors, which is why they often count for credit towards degrees.

Belen Sanchez, a junior majoring in finance, was able to see how different companies do business in different countries when she traveled to Italy in 2015. She also got to see the Amalfi Coast, the island of Capri, Florence, Turin and Naples.

Justin Barnes, a senior majoring in Slavic studies, thoroughly enjoyed his opportunity to travel to St. Petersburg last year.

“It’s something about going to another country, because you can read and watch the news. But it’s a different mentality when you actually go there and see it for yourself. There’s nothing like being in person,” he said.

Students who are concerned about financing their trips abroad can seek out scholarship opportunities to help fund their travels. There are many options available for students who are worried they may have insufficient funds.

If you didn’t get a chance to enjoy the festival, but are still interested in a study abroad program this year, please visit: www.studyabroad.wayne.edu or e-mail: studyabroad@wayne.edu.

Contact Aleanna Siacon: 586-354-5040 or fv7748@wayne.edu. Follow her on Twitter: @ATerese11

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