The aroma of cooked food fills the air and, electrifying music blasts from the speakers in the Etowah East cafeteria. International Night is a night where community members and students can feel the experience of traveling to different countries without the chaos of a passport. It is a chance to celebrate other cultures and acknowledge the diversity at the school.  As an effort to expand international experiences to Etowah, the International Student Association hosted International Night on Friday, Mar. 23 in the Etowah East cafeteria from 4-6pm, free of charge.

‘’Normally it’s a chance to learn about foods and learn about different parts of the world,’’ Michelle McGowan, Spanish teacher, said.

With other Etowah clubs helping, the event incorporated food, clothing, and music from around the world. The night was filled with information about geographical locations, cultural contributions, and traditions from a variety of countries. Students wore traditional clothing and listened to traditional music from some of the countries being showcased.

“The French Honors Society will have a crêpe bar, and it’ll be really fun,’’ Shanza Choudhary, junior, said.   

The Spanish Department students displayed their research projects on Spanish-speaking countries at the event. The International Student Association invited other classes that were doing similar projects to also join in and display their work. It is an opportunity for those who attend to gain information on a wide range of countries. “Travellers” were issued passports to the various countries they could visit.

‘’Students should go to see what other cultures are like-to know what it’s like to be in a different part of the world,’’ Tamara Linares, Spanish teacher, said.

Not only is International Night one filled with multicultural  learning, it is an annual opportunity for students to get community service hours and help them earn credits to their International Skills Diploma Seal (ISDS) portfolio to get an International Seal on their high school diploma. Students enjoyed  the night while contributing to their community.  

‘’Students come for the free food and community service hours. They enjoy spending time with their friends,’’ McGowan said.  

If you missed this year’s event, watch out for it next year.  Do not miss out on the opportunity to travel internationally without ever leaving town.