My Meaningful Event

 

When I decided to pursue my PhD in the US, I aimed not only to get a degree but also to experience and immerse myself in something else. The latter goal includes any activities that would mostly be in informal situations. I wanted to participate in non-academic activities, experience other cultures, traditions, and customs, and meet new people beyond campus walls. From them, I expect to earn cross-cultural understanding and other values. I had to make friends, possibly a new family, and exchange culture with other people in the US. One of the strategies that I had prior to coming to the US was that I registered for the International Friendship Program (IFP) at Purdue. I have been registered for the Program since I was in Indonesia. The IFP might not directly relate to my academic activities, yet being in this Program brings me benefits that support my well-being as an academic, particularly as an international student at Purdue. 

In the Program, I was paired with a family, a fantastic husband and wife. When I received their email for the first time, I felt how welcome they were to me. They shared their contacts to ease our communications. We continue texting or emailing one another until now, checking one another’s condition. Based on our conversation via email, we agreed to meet for our first in-person meeting. We decided to meet at an ice cream shop, which was not far away from my apartment. They generously offered me a ride to the shop since I was carless. They picked me up from my apartment; that was the first time I met them in person. I was beyond happy at that time. I was not the only international student paired with the couple. I met my IFP friend at the shop. Later, I found out that he was from China and was also pursuing a doctoral degree. At the shop, we had a great conversation. Of course, I had my West Lafayette first ice cream time. It was a memorable event that I had. It does not end there since the memorable experience continues.    

I received an email from the great couple, who listed significant events in October. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend them, but one, and it was a tailgate. I learned what tailgate was when I went to the event. The event was at the Purdue campus, where many big cars were parked nearby. Behind the cars parked were hidden gems and food. There were lots and lots of food. Some of them even brought a grill for the food. The owners of the cars parked close to one another are friends. They gathered during the tailgate and had a potluck. The potluck has a theme for each event, for example, grilling or something sweet. Then, during the tailgate, there will be a band performing. Most of the attendees at the gate are connected with the members of the band. They can be their parents, uncles, or family. 

From these activities, I learned many things. The tailgate, for example, becomes a place for people to connect, mingle, and get to know each other in a fun way. They shared food and stories and caught up with each other. The event was very relaxing, and I always saw happy faces. When I relate this event with one of the topics I have in class about mental health, I see the connection. The event can be a way for people to release stress by enjoying food, meeting people, and relaxing. These activities aim to maintain their mental health. Tailgate might look very simple, but it brings enormous benefits for those involved. Then, I realized that I needed to attend this event or other events that would bring happiness to me. I feel fortunate to have met my IFP ‘family’ who welcomed me and invited me to meet them, tailgate, and participate in other significant events, regardless of my background. I will surely treasure all the moments I have since they are all beyond meaningful and unforgettable ones.