Students prepare international dishes for 'Taste the World' event

Students spread culture one bite at a time Thursday at Southeast Missouri State University's "Taste the World" event.

International students shopped together and prepared native dishes in recognition of International Education Week. An estimated 500 people sampled the fare in Sadie's Place at Kent Library.

Countries represented were Mexico, Kenya, South Korea, China, Japan, Germany, Nepal, Saudia Arabia, India and Turkey.

"Where else can you go in this town and get food from 10 different countries?" asked George Dordoni, assistant director of international education and services.

He said the event was "a matter of sharing food and cultures and conversation and fun."

KIT DOYLE ~ kdoyle@semissourian.comA Kenyan kanga, left, was worn next to Japanese yukatas, right, during the Taste of the World international cuisine event held Thursday evening at Kent Library. The kanga is a traditional Kenyan skirt worn for serving food, while yukatas as summer outfits reserved for festivals or special occasions.

This is the second year for the event. Last year about 350 attended, more than anticipated.

Southeast leaders set a goal of attracting a minimum of 400 international students to the university. There are currently about 300 international students attending.

Last year, the university started sending a recruiter abroad. In April, Zahir Ahmed, executive director of international education and services, traveled to India, Nepal and the United Arab Emirates to advertise Southeast.

Student Takuya Motohashi of Japan said Thursday's event was an opportunity for international students to interact with local students. Wearing a traditional yukata, he served sushi.

Next to him were brothers Shahir and Tamim Alkhaniny of Saudia Arabia, who were serving kabsa, or chicken and rice. "Everybody seems to like it," said Shahir Alkhaniny.

Twenty-six international students shopped together on the university's dime to purchase the food. "We heard it was the biggest single order Schnucks ever had," said Carl Pracht, who helped organize the event.

"When we were doing the shopping, everyone was so excited. It's an honor to serve the food," said student Irene Ayieko of Kenya.

lbavolek@semissourian.com

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