MoWest’s Center for Student Involvement continues with International Fair

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Missouri Western's campus came alive Wednesday as students, faculty, and the local community gathered for the annual International Fair, a beloved event featuring free food, entertainment, and opportunities to explore the diverse countries and cultures that shape the university.

The International Fair was founded to help students who may be further from home than others. It gives them a chance to live and introduce their cultures to other students. The surrounding community is also invited into the Fulkerson Center on campus. A favorite part is the food served to attendees.

One of the students involved with the event was Miguel Pazblanco, who is from Honduras. He explained that he chose MoWest after a family member recommended the university's nursing program.

Pazblanco noted that many people are hesitant to try new foods, particularly those that might be too spicy or unfamiliar. "This is a great place to just get a bite of every piece of the world," he said. "I haven't heard anything but great things."

Chidera Mbah is another nursing student at MoWest. She ran the Nigerian information booth at the fair. She is originally from Kansas City, Missouri, but has proud Nigerian heritage. She has found great community spirit on campus through this event.

Her booth featured Suya Chicken Wings, which she described as very spicy. She loves them and also got the chance to find other foods at the event that she enjoyed.

Mbah shared her experience at the fair, saying, "I went to 'India', and I also tried their samosas, and it's incredible. I love it. It was really good. Everyone's really coming here for the food and then seeing the performances, the fashion show."

The event ran from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on campus, and plans are already in place for it to return next school year at the same time. For a complete list of upcoming campus events at MoWest, click here.