The International Student Program at Skyline College hosted its annual Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, May 8, 2025. The event was a beautiful blend of celebrating the international students’ achievements during the academic year 2024-2025, while also showcasing the diverse backgrounds from which they come. The Acting President of Skyline College, Dr. Newin Orante, gave the ceremony an exceptional start by acknowledging students’ outstanding achievements and empowering them to be themselves and celebrate their distinct cultures.
The audience, which comprised students, administrators, staff, and faculty, was then awestruck by an extravagant fashion show. The fashion show showcased traditional outfits from around the world, which included :
· India’s Salwar Kameez: a pair of loose-fitting pants known as the “salwar,” a short and fitting tunic known as the “kameez”
· India’s Anarkali: a flared silhouette, long flowing fabric, and elaborate embroidery work.
· The Philippines’ Barong: a “transparent” type of dress shirt made primarily of organza, pina or jusi pineapple fabrics.
· China’s Hanfu: is a traditional Chinese attire worn by the Han ethnic group, featuring diverse styles.
· Peru’s Lliclla: a traditional handwoven shoulder cloth worn by Quechua women in the Andes region of Peru.
· Korea’s Hanbok: consists of a jeogori and baji. Sometimes, men wear a baeja over the jeogori top.
· Pakistan’s Saree: the dress consists of an unstitched stretch of woven fabric arranged over the body as a dress
· Mexico’s Chiapas: a traditional garment known for its vibrant floral designs hand-stitched by Indigenous artisans, often from the Tzotzil or Tzeltal communities.
· Mongolia’s Deel: a loose calf-length tunic made of one piece of material
· Myanmar’s Longyi: traditional casual wear in Myanmar, features great diversity in terms of textiles, weaves, fibers, colors and materials, including velvet, silk, lace, muslin, and cotton.
· Singapore’s Peranakan Nyonya Kebaya: typically identified as a sheer blouse, made using lightweight fabric, paired with a batik sarong
Students and staff who walked the runway brought their culture to life in their traditional outfits and striking poses. The fashion show was a way to enhance the diversity and inclusivity which makes students embrace their unique heritage. Following that, everyone dived in to enjoy some food and games which were being tabled along the side. The attendees enjoyed playing traditional cultural games like Gonggi (Korea), Mancala (originated in Egypt but played in multiple countries), Hoo Hey How (also played in multiple countries), and Cờ cá ngựa (Vietnam). After the food, fun and games, a mesmerizing dance was performed by two students – Aratita Taramarawa and Toakase Toke. Everyone was stunned by their beautiful Tongan dance performance which captivatingly highlighted their beautiful culture. It was then time to recognize the international students who were graduating/transferring, won scholarships and/or were an active member of our ECHO Club (Embracing Culture, Heritage and Origins). The Dean of Enrollment Services, William Minnich, and our Program Manager, Clair Yeo-Sugajski, honored the students by announcing their names and awarding certificates. A lot of cheering and claps later, it was Raffle time. As everyone gripped their chairs and crossed their fingers, winners were announced and they took home some amazing prizes.
Overall, the event fostered a sense of community and belonging while celebrating students’ success and motivating them to keep excelling in their respective fields.
The International Student Program is part of the Enrollment Services and Support Programs Division. ISP will continue to provide services and programs for international students as well as for the entire Skyline College community. If you are interested in learning more about future ISP programs and events, contact the ISP office at skyinternational@smccd.edu.
Article by Jia Haria
Photos by Mabel Lynn
