On March 23, Cruise the World transformed the Bruce M. Pitman Center into a cultural hub. Organized by the International Programs Office, the event highlighted over 25 countries.
Shriza Thakur, a senior interior architecture major, worked as the Social Media Manager for this year’s event. Thakur said, “Whether you are here for food or performances or just to meet people, there is always something new for everyone.”
Months of preparation and planning made this event a reality. Colorful sights, smells and sounds flowed throughout the space.
Attendees enjoyed a flag parade, dancing and music while they traveled between countries. Throughout the five-hour event, over 20 groups performed.
With food and conversation flowing, this signature event was a night of celebration. It provided a space for international students and community members to share their culture and spend time together.
Junior fire ecology student Juan Juarez Lopez shared what he gained from this event. “There’s just so much culture here that I’m not used to at all. I come from a somewhat small town, and there’s just so many decorations here that wowed me.”
Along with great food and entertainment, it sparked important conversations and learning. Thakur said, “It’s important for the university because it creates a space for dialogue, learning and appreciating other cultures.”
Lopez said, “There’s much more to Earth than the little circles we have. Certain people like to stay in their own bubble, but if you pop out of it, you’ll see so many things. Don’t get tunnel vision of where you’re at and open up to other things.”
JAMM lecturer Louise Ying-Chia Hsu attended this event for the first time. “Exposing ourselves to diverse cultures is a very important thing to learn,” she said. “We cannot travel around the world, but in this place, you’ll be able to learn a little bit.”
Originally from Nepal, Thakur feels a strong connection with this event. When explaining her role on the team, she said, “I love the international community here, and I was thinking of the ways that I could give back to the community.”
“Honestly, everything about this event makes me proud,” Thakur said. “When I look around, I see people everywhere smiling, eating, and talking to people. Just seeing people together makes me really proud.”
She continued by explaining why this is such an important event on campus. “I think it’s one of the most colorful, vibrant events on campus, and you’ll leave with a smile and a full stomach.”
Sophia Roberts can be reached at arg-life@uidaho.edu