Interested in going to culturally enriching events, meeting new people from across the globe, and enjoying delicious food? For those new to Florida State or others wanting to get more involved in campus happenings, allow me to give you the low down about two events that are definitely worthwhile.
Every Friday 5 to 6:30 PM at the Globe, you will find a large and diverse crowd gathered for International Coffee Hour. International Coffee Hour allows International students, American students, and faculty to mingle , meet interesting people, and discuss topics with people from entirely different cultures. Oh, I should probably mention that they provide coffee, tea, and snacks. And yes, it is all free! The food is delicious, too. On one occasion, they had hummus, pita, and an irresistibly moist Turkish cake with cream cheese icing….don’t mind if I do!
They usually have different themes for the coffee hours. The last time I went, they hosted a French coffee hour where they served strawberry crepes topped off with a hot chocolate sauce. There is nothing better than good food, a cup of coffee, and having spontaneous conversations about the crazy nightlife adventures that a guy from Ethiopia has had.
This is the best part; getting to talk to people from Germany, Spain, Colombia, Ethiopia, Romania, India… the list could go on forever.
Additionally, going to coffee hour could be beneficial for those wanting to brush up on their second language skills, especially for those who are studying abroad soon! I am going to be traveling to Paris over the summer, so I know that having a firsthand experience with French natives is priceless. Who knows, maybe you can find yourself a cutie from Spain who would be willing to help you practice your Spanish!
Another cool thing they do is allow people to showcase their talents. They give opportunities for students and other groups to show off their amazing skills, whether it be singing, dancing, playing an instrument, DJ-ing, or anything you would like to share with others.
Apart from this rad opportunity to eat, mingle and chitchat, The Globe also hosts the Global Café: A Taste of World Cuisine and Cultures. On select Fridays (schedules are available on The Globe’s page) student groups and staff prepare authentic meals from a specific country and serve them starting at11:30 AM until the food runs out!
The menu consists of an entrée, two sides, and dessert all for the price of $7. These foods are totally authentic, and way are more exciting than having a Black Forrest Ham foot long at Subway.
My favorite meal I’ve had at one of these events is “Taste of Africa.” I devoured ate Chicken Stew with vegetables, Jollof Rice (West African rice with tomatoes and onion), Fried Plantains and for dessert, Puff Puff Balls (Nigerian deep-fried dough dessert). As a side note, they usually offer a vegetarian entrée!
Even though the last place you want to be on a Friday is on campus, these events should definitely not be overlooked. With that said, get out there and enjoy the international vibe FSU has to offer!