Students represent variety of cultures, traditions
There was a flurry of colorful outfits and international food inside the Russell House Ballroom on Tuesday as students, faculty and Columbia residents gathered for the 15th annual World Night.
Co-sponsored by the International Student Association and the Office of International Student Services, the free event showcased the diversity of USC students by featuring multicultural performances and serving international cuisine.
“It helps people broaden their minds. As a USC freshman, I think we need more diversity on campus,” said Cho-fei Huang, a first-year business student who performed a Taiwanese rap song.
The event also presented the final round of the Mr. and Ms. World USC Pageant. Contestants had the opportunity to represent their native countries and to connect with other participants from multiple backgrounds.
“It has really meant a lot to me because I got to meet people from different organizations and nationalities and to build connections,” said contestant Braylin Starks, a first-year psychology student.
At the end of the evening, the audience chose Rahul Singh, representing India, and Crystal McRae, representing Guyana, as Mr. and Ms. World 2014.
Other students also represented their backgrounds in a variety of performances. Spectators were treated with a puppet show from the French Club, a demonstration of southeast Asian martial arts by Dark Horse Eskrima and a limbo dance led by Students Associated for Latin America, or SALA, that threw the audience into a frenzy.
The event was also packed with dance routines, including performances by Swype and Gamecock Bhangra.
Several of the pieces involved a synthesis of multiple cultures. Norwin Chamok, Hilal Al-saadi and Fazle Rabbi performed twist on the famous song “Cups” with an infusion of Bengali music, and the USC MOKSHA dance rendition of Tarzan blended Bollywood, Bhangra, Garba, Bharata Natyam and hip-hop in its routine.
Despite the variety of the presentations, every performance focused on promoting understanding and celebrating the diversity of the student body.
“I think it’s a great celebration of different cultures,” said Rachel Smoak, a second-year chemistry and chemical engineering student.
In addition to showcasing different cultures, the event also allowed international students to connect with one another.
“The International Student Association promotes awareness, and it’s also a place where you feel like you’re at home. Everyone is coming from a different culture, and it’s a way for people to help each other out,” said Nabil Khan, who participated in the Dark Horse Eskrima demonstration.
The participants also celebrated the World Night’s 15th anniversary and highlighted the event’s success in promoting diversity and broadening students’ world views since its establishment.
“I really encourage people to come out to ISA events,” said Tatiana Guarin, who performed in SALA’s limbo dance. “It’s a great opportunity to get a broader perspective.”