This Sunday, April 2, marks the University’s annual International Festival! The festival begins at 2 p.m. and goes until 6 p.m. at Goldstein Auditorium in the Schine Student Center. If you’re looking for an opportunity to try new food, learn about different cultures or watch performances, then make sure to check it out! Read on to learn more about the 10 Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) showcasing their cultural foods, traditions and talents at the International Festival this year.
African Student Union
The mission of the African Student Union (ASU) is to promote fellowship and development among African students and cultivate a spirit of service. ASU works to increase the awareness of African students’ interests and concerns at Syracuse University and SUNY-ESF, along with educating the campus community about the continent of Africa. If you are interested in learning more or joining ASU, email asu.cuse@gmail.com.
Caribbean Students Association
The main objective of the Caribbean Students Association (C.S.A.) is to promote awareness of Caribbean culture on and off campus and to facilitate discourse about issues faced in the Caribbean. The group also promotes Caribbean cultural activities through visual and performing arts. The C.S.A. puts together a wide variety of activities, such as forums, festivals, general lectures and more. You can keep up with the C.S.A. by following their Instagram account.
Chinese Union
The Chinese Union aims to provide Chinese students with a platform to express themselves and encourage communication with other ethnic groups on campus, as well as connect with the local Syracuse community. Meetings are held Fridays at 4 p.m. at various locations. To get in contact, call 315.395.1123.
European Student Association
The European Student Association is dedicated to fostering a community and space for students who identify as European. Social events, professional development and more are some of the things the European Student Association offers. The group is not restricted to European students, and is open to anyone with a background or interest in European Culture. You can keep up with the group by joining their WhatsApp or following them on Instagram.
Filipino Student Association
The Filipino Student Association is a cultural organization open to all Syracuse University and SUNY-ESF students. The Association aims to represent and celebrate the local Filipino community as well as increase awareness of language, culture and history in a fun setting.
Haitian American Student Association
The Haitian American Student Association (HASA) helps educate the campus community about Haitian culture, achievements and current events by running programs such as presentations, guest speakers and social events. Their mission is to foster an atmosphere of cultural acceptance and diversity. You can keep up with HASA by following their Instagram account.
Mexican Student Association
The goal of the Mexican Student Association is to create an inclusive and diverse community of Syracuse University and SUNY-ESF students of Mexican descent. The Association hosts regular conversations about things that directly affect the Mexican communities on campus and hopes to bring awareness of Mexican culture to the Syracuse and SUNY-ESF student bodies by hosting events and activities that welcome everyone.
South Asian Student Association
The South Asian Student Association (SASA) embraces the cultures of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Their goal is to provide a safe space for all students to explore the vastness of South Asia through events including movie nights, dances, celebrations and more. To attend a meeting or join SASA, head to the group’s Instagram account to fill out the membership application in their Instagram bio.
Turkish Student Association
If you are interested in various social and cultural activities to help raise awareness for Turkish culture and heritage, then the Turkish Student Association (TSA) is a great organization to join! The TSA’s mission is to build a network among its members and the Syracuse University community, foster a relationship with other organizations on campus and encourage the student body to get more involved with Turkish culture.
Ukrainian Club at Syracuse University
The Ukrainian Club at Syracuse University strives to help all Ukrainian students here on campus by providing a space for Ukrainian students to feel at home and promote shared ideals. The organization spreads awareness about Ukrainian culture, history and current events, and is open to all Ukrainians, students of Ukrainian descent and anyone who appreciates and wants to learn more about Ukraine. The Ukrainian Club hosts several events throughout the academic year, such as Donations 4 Donuts, Ukrainian Film Fest, guest lectures, trivia nights and more. You can keep up with the Ukrainian Club by following their Instagram or liking their Facebook page.
Be sure to check out each of the 10 RSOs attending the International Festival this year! Each of these organizations are always looking for members and would love to welcome new attendees to activities and meetings. If one of these RSOs sparked your interest, make sure to reach out to them or check them out on social media!
Written by Tessa Hodinger G’23, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications