Listen Here
University of Findlay’s International Night brings cultures together through food, music and celebration
By Elina Ivanova, IvanovaE@Findlay.edu
University of Findlay hosts International Night on April 10 from 5-8 p.m., allowing students and the local community to explore global cultures through food, performances, and cultural exhibits.
Organized by the Buford Center for Diversity and Service, the event unites international and domestic students, faculty, staff and the Findlay community to celebrate the diverse backgrounds represented on campus. International Night, a long-standing tradition at UF, promotes cross-cultural connections for more than 50 years.
“This event was originally started by the International Admissions Office to showcase the many cultures represented on our campus,” said Elizabeth Pino, Coordinator of International Education. “It allows international students to share their traditions while bringing the UF and Findlay communities together.”
One of the highlights of International Night is the stage performances, where students present traditional music and dances from their home countries.
“Students participate in many ways. Some cook food, some set up exhibits, and others perform on stage,” Pino said. “When people from the community see different languages, flags, and customs, they learn firsthand about the diversity that exists right here in Findlay.”
Among this year’s performers is Fluffy Nguyen, a sophomore from Vietnam, who sees the event as an opportunity to share his heritage through art.
“I want to spread Vietnamese culture by performing traditional dance and music,” Nguyen said. “It’s a way to show people that our culture is real and not just something they see on television.”
For Nguyen, representing his culture in front of a large audience is both exciting and nerve-wracking.
“People won’t just see me as Fluffy. They will see me as a Vietnamese student representing my country,” Nguyen said. “There’s pressure, but it’s also a privilege.”
Another major attraction of International Night is the authentic international cuisine served by students. Students will submit their recipes for larger-scale preparation and serve the food at designated tables, engaging with guests and sharing information about their countries’ culinary traditions.
For many attendees, the chance to experience food from different cultures is a highlight of the evening.
“Students put in a lot of effort to ensure the food is authentic,” Pino said. “I remember tasting different dishes from India, Japan and the Middle East. It is always a memorable experience.”
Senior Lidia Laskova, a Student Assistant at the International Admissions Office, emphasized how the event helps break stereotypes.
“As international students, we often meet people who have preconceived notions about our countries,” Laskova said. “But when they see our traditional music, food and exhibits, they get a better idea of who we really are.”
Laskova also shared how the event has helped international students feel more connected to the UF community.
“Last year, I served Russian crepes, and after that, several professors recognized me on campus and told me how much they enjoyed them,” Laskova said. “It’s small moments like these that make a big difference.”
This event gives international students a chance to share their identity, connect with others, and celebrate the rich cultural diversity at the University of Findlay.
“There’s no other place where I can fully express my culture like this,” Nguyen said. “It’s a special night that brings us all together.”
