By Michela Gritti
International Education Week (IEW) hit its stride on Tuesday, November 18, with a packed schedule of events designed to broaden horizons and fill global passports! While the week kicked off with a bang on Monday, Day Two continued the high energy, culminating in an action-packed cultural event hosted by the Asian Student Association (ASA).
The day offered various opportunities for students to connect and collect their global passport stamps. At 11:00 AM in Belk Hall, the Sip and Chat provided a warm, relaxing start, giving students a chance to grab coffee, play chess, and just chill while learning about the various opportunities offered by UNCP’s Office of Global Engagement (OGE).
The event saw great attendance, including students from UNCP’s English Language Institute (ELI). Rosa Ball, assistant director of international student engagement, noted the relaxed environment and high turnout, confirming that the Keurig kept attendees supplied with coffee and tea. She added that the event would be hosted again this Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring conversation facilitators.
Later, at 1:00 PM, the James A. Thomas Hall (JATH) hosted an important informative session focused on employment and internship opportunities specifically for visa holders, providing crucial guidance for UNCP’s international community.
The evening’s main attraction was the ASA’s highly anticipated Pagoda and Pit Stops: AsiaAmazing Race, held from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM in the Auxiliary Gym. The ASA’s goal was simple: celebrate IEW by introducing UNCP students to traditional Asian games and having an unforgettable amount of fun.
The strategy paid off, drawing over 80 UNCP students who sprinted, laughed, and strategized their way through 12 stations—all for the chance to win Asian snacks and boba tea! Participants tackled everything from classic Sack Races and a grueling Tug of War to skill-based challenges like the Chopsticks Relay and the hilarious Blind Chicken Race. The energy was high as teams worked together to conquer each “pit-stop.”
The enthusiastic participation was a testament to the ASA’s dedication, especially for their first IEW event. Sarah Sipayung, president of the Asian Student Association, shared her pride in the event’s success:
“As president, it honestly made my whole week seeing Asian Student Association celebrate our first International Education Week, and actually pull in so many participants… The energy was wild. Everyone was laughing, running around, and low-key acting like kids again with all the games.”
She concluded, emphasizing the purpose behind her work: “Moments like this remind me why I love leading this organization”.
The second day of IEW was a powerful blend of practical information and high-energy cultural engagement, proving that learning about the world can be just as exciting as a race to the finish line!