I give the Asian Student Association (ASA) a grade “A” on its efforts to put together an event that satisfied everyone’s craving for more than just delivered Chinese food.
The Oak Room was filled with a large number of people Friday night, crowding inside to get a plate of whatever looked appetizing (that happened to be everything that was laid out on the buffet).
ASA was prepared to feed the entire school with two buffet tables filled with an arrangement of delicacies that originated from numerous countries from all over Asia. I only made it half way through the first before I realized that I would need a second plate to continue taste-testing the quality of each dish.
Everything had a unique flavor that stuck out on my taste buds, but not everything stuck out in a good way. A lot of the food was spicy, and as much as I love eating things that have the potential to set my entire head on fire, I couldn’t finish some of the dishes due to the lack of beverages.
There was tea and water, but not enough to cool the burning sensation at the roofs of everyone’s mouth. There was only one entrée that I couldn’t stomach because it smelt (and tasted) like I was eating a cigar.
The highlight, I must say, was watching the Tae Kwon Do demonstration, where boards and splinters went flying across the room from heavy kicks and punches. Following was choreographed fight between two of the ASA students that made me feel like I was watching a really good anime program live.
Each act was entertaining in its own way and kept my attention, but it was a lot to take in at once. ASA tried to give small intermissions between some acts, but the ones that were back-to-back made me feel like I was sitting in one spot for hours on end. People crowded closer to the entertainment, so getting up to move around was made obvious, and would make one feel somewhat awkward.
Booths were also set up to display a small piece of each country’s culture. The best was the Chinese calligraphy and painting because it provided guests with a souvenir while the other tables only had displays or small treats to snack on, which was kind of unnecessary considering that the buffet filled everyone’s stomachs.
Those who were behind the booth knew enough of the culture to answer an array of questions, and showed enthusiasm in others’ curiosity. The ping pong table provided was an excellent asset that engaged many students; it was a great way to get people’s attention.
Overall, the event was something no one should have missed. Games, dancing, music and food were provided, and when I walked out, I felt that I learned something that I was sure would stick with me. It was well organized, and the hard work that ASA put into it showed. If you missed this event, I would advise you to make sure you attend it next year.
Leave a Reply