International students celebrate end of semester at culture festival

Yana Mcguire
Contributor

The event also served as a fashion show, with students from many different cultures and backgrounds dressed to impress. Marcella Souza Freitas | Washtenaw Voice

The vibrant decorations that filled the Garrett’s restaurant perfectly matched the energy that the members of the International Student Association (ISA) had during their Culture Festival on April 11.

Students from all over the globe joined together to release the stresses of higher learning abroad by indulging in a host of activities.

ISA meetings will resume during the fall every Wednesday from 4 to 5 p.m. in LA 227. Marcella Souza Freitas | Washtenaw Voice

The event kicked off with an invitation to join in on a round of karaoke that took no time to be accepted; with the atmosphere being comfortable enough to allow the students to grab the microphone and perform without fear of judgment.

To set the tone for the environment, the club’s President, João Victor Dias from Brazil, greeted each attendant warmly at the door.

Dias’ passion to maintain a safe place to unwind for students comes from his own personal experience of arriving at WCC.

“When I first came to WCC, I felt alone because, like most community colleges, everyone already had their friend groups from high school,” Dias said.

“I had to make new friends, but it was hard because I didn’t want to intrude on anyone’s conversation. So, I got involved with ISA to help other international students make new friends and exchange their experiences of the new and exciting things happening in their lives,” he continued.

Students at the event had a chance to partake in karaoke, games, and other activities. Marcella Souza Freitas | Washtenaw Voice

Even though he just became president three months ago, his goals were certainly achieved on that evening.

As the music flowed on, games such as an extra-large Jenga were played, the honor of cultural dress ranging from Nigeria to Vietnam was on full display for a fashion show.

The International Students Association (ISA) participated in a Culture Festival on April 11. Marcella Souza Freitas | Washtenaw Voice

Abdullah Niazy, hailing from Afghanistan, believes ISA has been an important part of his success at WCC.

“I have been a part of ISA for two years and believe it helps students deal with the culture shock we all face,” he said.

“When I first got here, I struggled learning how to interact with American students, but after joining this group, it was easier to learn how to behave in an American college setting. I believe this group has been so helpful that it should expand outside WCC into the community to help international residents in Washtenaw County,” said Niazy.

ISA won’t be holding meetings during the summer months, but gatherings will resume in the fall every Wednesday from 4 to 5 p.m. in room LA 227.

“Please don’t hesitate to come to our meetings,” Dias encouraged.

“Everything is new, and it feels different from back home, but we are here to help you. Feel free to reach out to me via email anytime at jmdias@wccnet.edu,” he said.