by Joy Esiemokhai
Over 500 guests packed into the Z6 for the 2014 edition of International Night, which took place recently. The annual event, which is organized by the International Student Club of the University of West Georgia, is one of the biggest student organization events in UWG and this year’s bash, themed “World Wide Wolves,” marked the 29th edition of the event.
Attendees lined up before the 7:00 p.m door opening, looking forward to a night of food and fun. ISC members from over 25 countries, including China, Ethiopia, Germany and more, prepared meals from their native countries for guests to sample. Carrollton-area caterers, including Samba Loca and Papa John’s, also provided food at the event.
Guests were then treated to the entertainment segment, which saw performances from club members and other participants. Highlights of the segment included the fashion show, with students from approximately 20 countries showcasing traditional wear from their home nations, a dance performance by the UWG African Student Association, and a Can-Can dance performance by two French exchange students.
“This is my last International Night and it is bittersweet,” says Annie Kim, a senior from South Korea graduating in the summer. “I have been part of the event every year since I came and I’m going to miss it.”
Before the show ended, Dr. Maria Doyle, the director of the UWG International Services and Programs department, took to the podium to thank guests for once again making the annual event a success and to talk about UWG’s study abroad opportunities. ISC president, Carlos Harry, followed suit with a brief thank-you speech before leading club members into the event finale dance performance to the smash hit “Timber” by Pitbull and Ke$ha.
“I don’t want to say this was expected, but it is great to see so many people attend this event year after year,” says Nuzair Nuwais, the entertainment chair of the club. “It is a wonderful feeling to see all the months of hard work and planning pay off.”
“This was my first time attending the event and I’m definitely attending next year,” says Jessie Crews, a graduate student. With next year’s event marking the 30th edition of the fest, one can hardly wait to see what will be in store.
