On April 17, the university hosted the 46th annual International Festival (iFest) at the David A. Beckerman Recreation Center. A university tradition that attracts more than 1,000 attendees to celebrate global culture.

“The event celebrates cultures from around the world and recognizes all the cultures and backgrounds of students on campus,” said Brianna Santos, a senior legal studies major and vice president of operations for the Undergraduate Student Government Association (USGA).

The event had multiple tables, each showcasing a different country and its culture. The event also provided many international foods and captivating performances by university students.

“Cultural organizations on campus provide their perspectives and help with proper representation of their cultures,” Santos said. “Departments such as Student Affairs, Dining, GSC, USGA, OGISL, CSELO, Residential Life and the Myatt Center plan and organize the event from the ground up.”

Students, faculty and staff come together to create this celebration. Ahmad Masoom Naimi, a first-year graduate finance student, did not only attend the event but also chose to share his culture with the community.

“My favorite part of the event was explaining my culture and history to guests and fellow students,” he said. “Their curiosity and interest made the experience especially meaningful.”

What makes this year’s iFest special?

“This iFest is special because of the big promotion to undergraduate students. It is open to all students but historically only graduate and international students have attended iFest,” said Santos. “The promotion to the undergraduate population has increased significantly and steps like these bring together the undergraduate and graduate student populations.”

Every year iFest gains guests and participants, eager to learn about other cultures while sharing their own.