The International Student Program (ISP) hosted its annual Global Extravaganza event on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, to promote cultural diversity and educate the school community about the various cultures represented by the international students at Skyline College. Julius Wijaya, an international student from Indonesia, served as the emcee for the event from 12 pm to 1 pm at the Fireside Dining. He started the event by introducing Cia Garcia, a Sundanese (West Javanese) dancer from the Bay Area. Cia performed two classic Indonesian dances: the masked dance and the Jaipongan dance, while dressed in two different traditional Indonesian costumes.
Several tables were set up during the event with different activities to enhance the cultural experience. There was an instrument table where attendees could play traditional instruments with the help of ISP student ambassadors and student volunteers. The traditional instruments from Myanmar and Indonesia, such as Angklung, Kendang, and Saron from Indonesia, Singing Bowl from Nepal, Xylophone from Myanmar, and Hank Drum from the Aztec culture, were displayed at the musical instrument table.
From there, the attendees could move along and test their Chinese, Burmese, and Javanese calligraphy. Finally, the attendees could show off their talents at the Origami folding table by learning how to fold a paper tray and a paper crane.
ISP also had a traditional gaming table. Participants learned how to play a traditional Vietnamese game called Klah Klok, played on New Year’s Day; a Singaporean game involving mini bean bags called Five Stones, a game similar to Jacks. We also had a traditional game called Mancala. It is played in several Asian countries as well as some African countries This game requires a lot of patience and wit because it can take hours to play.
Overall, many staff, faculty, and students showed up for the event and participated. The event was a big success since it allowed students, faculty, and staff to learn about other countries cultures. The event was enriching and instructive, with cultural showcases from all over the world.
The International Student Program is part of the Global Learning Programs and Services 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 ISP office at skyinternational@smccd.edu.
Article by Tim Luong | Photos by Hnin Thandar Win
