The spirit of togetherness and joy echoed through Fed Hall as over 300 international students gathered to revel in Waterloo’s annual winter break dinner, creating cherished memories and fostering a sense of community during the holiday season.
This highly anticipated event, organized in collaboration with the Student Success Office (SSO), Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA), and the Graduate Student Association, brought together students from various corners of the globe for an unforgettable night of camaraderie.
For a mere $5, attendees were treated to a delectable two-course festive dinner, setting the stage for a night filled with laughter, connection, and dance. The electrifying atmosphere at Fed Hall resonated with the vibrant energy of international students who seized the opportunity to celebrate the winter break in the company of their fellow Warriors.
International student experience manager with the SSO, Candace Brown, emphasized the significance of such events in alleviating the feelings of loneliness and isolation that some students may face during the winter. She noted, “Many international students are unable to visit family or return to their home countries after the semester ends, and with limited campus services available, it’s vital that we create these spaces and opportunities so they can lean on one another for support and camaraderie during the winter break.”
The event not only served as a platform for festive merriment but also carried a deeper purpose. All proceeds from the winter break dinner were directed towards WUSA’s Food Support Service, exemplifying the commitment to giving back to the community.
In addition to the delightful holiday dinner, international students were offered the chance to participate in UWinterloo, an SSO-run program designed to connect students with various festivities, services, and events across the Waterloo region. To add a personal touch, each student received a gift bag containing a handwritten card from a UWaterloo staff or faculty member.
As students filled the dance floor, their expressions mirrored the joy and fulfillment of coming together during a time when many were away from their families. One attendee shared, “These types of events for international students who are away from their families are really enjoyable. It was great to have a space for other international students to connect at this time. I hope I can come again next year.”
Waterloo’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and support for international students was evident in every aspect of the winter break dinner, reinforcing the university’s dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.
