Alrighty, some things I found important to say. Turkey Break is from November 25 to November 27 plus the weekend. Remember several things about this holiday this year. That despite the financial hardships, despite your scuffles and fights, these people that will hopefully gather around the table with you this Thanksgiving are still your family, whatever that terms means to you. Basically, people who have compassion for you and will be with you to the end. And even if you don't celebrate Thanksgiving, every culture has a celebration of thanks or appreciation for their family. Remember what matters and it's not material things.
On a lighter note this Turkey Break is an opportunity to sleep! I don't know about you but for me MUCH SLEEPING will be going on. It's the snowball effect regarding sleeping in college. You stay up late one day, which means less sleep the next day and then you stay up late another night which causes you to lose more sleep and you get the picture... This break is also to get a hold on things. If you are anything like me and knowing most of you are not freshman this likely isn't the case you seemed to have procrastinated (put off doing things) enough so that you are now occupying your time making up for time you've lost. Relief is soon at hand my friends!
Also, as a reminder, there are some plans being made for trips through Jonathan Triplett such as a ski trip on Winter Break and a hiking trip through the Chicksaw recreation area this coming weekend. If you haven't gotten the email but are interested in either of these things I can get that information to you.
One thing I am passionate about is reading and you can't forget to do that. Even it is just reading a little of the New York Times each day you need to read it. It keeps you informed on what is going on in the world plus it can get you used to the idioms and figurative language of the English language. Plus, if you go into lengthier modes of text then you have a little world you can enter that can take you from the stress and reality of one's own world.
Enough about my rambling on. I said this post was about Turkey Break and the International Showcase. Your blogger here is found. The International Showcase is to be November 17th during the peak lunch hours. Make sure your people know what they are to do tomorrow! It is sure to be fun and for those participating, dress to impress! The International Showcase is hosted in the cafeteria and will showcase various foods from cultures present at OCU. Items and other demonstrations are also present. Unless things have changed, students get to vote on the most appealing, appetizing cuisine this year! So come with empty bellies and a critics eye! :)
Monday, November 16, 2009
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
A New Identity: I Have Two Names.
Many international students at OCU have English names, and it seems that they have them for different reasons: for native speakers who ‘can not’ pronunciate their native names and for creating a new identity when they speak a new language. However, some language learners say it is funny to have another name. It depends on the person.
As a matter of fact, a new name means a new identity, speaking a new language. If you have ever tried to learn a foreign language, you might understand how difficult it is to learn a different language. As a Korean who grew up only speaking my native language, it was not easy to learn English, which has a totally different character and sound system. Now, as an English learner who keeps making an effort to be a good English speaker, I would like to say that I call myself Hyejung and Ellie. I have two names: Hyejung, my Korean name and Ellie, my English name.
When I had my very first English conversation class about ten years ago, the native English teacher asked the students to think about an English name. Since I had not thought about an English name- a NEW name - I did not know what I should name myself. Many of my friends had an English name which started with the same consonant of their Korean name. Instead, I wanted to think about my character and who I am as a person. I got an idea when my friend told me I was just like Alice from Alice in Wonderland, who is full of curiosity. I agreed and I picked up the name, but I wanted to make it shorter and sound like two syllables because “Alice” pronounced in Korean is three syllables. I also changed Alice to Ellie because it was the name of my favorite cartoon character at that time.
Sometimes my friends would change their name after a while because they didn’t like it anymore; however, I thought it was strange to change the name because it was a ‘name’ not a ‘nickname’. The more people called me Ellie, the more I developed my new identity. I have been called solely Ellie for about ten years. Now, even many of my Korean friends call me Ellie. Do you also feel like it is YOU when you are called by the new name? Whether it is your ‘original’ name or your ‘new’ name, if you do feel it is you, it is you!
Ellie Kim
TESOL Graduate Student
MSA E-Newsletter Coordinator
As a matter of fact, a new name means a new identity, speaking a new language. If you have ever tried to learn a foreign language, you might understand how difficult it is to learn a different language. As a Korean who grew up only speaking my native language, it was not easy to learn English, which has a totally different character and sound system. Now, as an English learner who keeps making an effort to be a good English speaker, I would like to say that I call myself Hyejung and Ellie. I have two names: Hyejung, my Korean name and Ellie, my English name.
When I had my very first English conversation class about ten years ago, the native English teacher asked the students to think about an English name. Since I had not thought about an English name- a NEW name - I did not know what I should name myself. Many of my friends had an English name which started with the same consonant of their Korean name. Instead, I wanted to think about my character and who I am as a person. I got an idea when my friend told me I was just like Alice from Alice in Wonderland, who is full of curiosity. I agreed and I picked up the name, but I wanted to make it shorter and sound like two syllables because “Alice” pronounced in Korean is three syllables. I also changed Alice to Ellie because it was the name of my favorite cartoon character at that time.
Sometimes my friends would change their name after a while because they didn’t like it anymore; however, I thought it was strange to change the name because it was a ‘name’ not a ‘nickname’. The more people called me Ellie, the more I developed my new identity. I have been called solely Ellie for about ten years. Now, even many of my Korean friends call me Ellie. Do you also feel like it is YOU when you are called by the new name? Whether it is your ‘original’ name or your ‘new’ name, if you do feel it is you, it is you!
Ellie Kim
TESOL Graduate Student
MSA E-Newsletter Coordinator
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
OKC Day Tour
Sometimes we don’t realize we can find a lot of adventures and interesting experiences right here in our daily life, not far away out there. I believe that if we look around a bit more carefully, we will have more of a chance to make our life exciting, have valuable experiences and understand our lives better, which are connected to the surroundings and other people. I believe that it is truly worth spending one day visiting some places near my home. It doesn’t have to be “special exploration”; sometimes I just try to walk along new streets to find some restaurants or cafes. That is an easy way but brings me to a real exploration which makes my life more exciting and fun. Furthermore, if there are some tourist attractions or some events in my town, those can be better to have valuable experiences. I want you to know that whenever you see the chance, take it!
On Sep 12, 2009, I got the chance to make my new life wonderful with good memories and experiences in the USA thanks to Multicultural Student Association at OCU. The date was also an anniversary to celebrate my first month in the USA. As I spent a month in my new life at OCU, everything was absolutely new. Especially, Oklahoma City was a place that I hadn’t heard about before, nor could imagine staying to live and study. So, I was eager to know about my new place, and the OKC Day Tour was a great chance to quench my thirst, for sure!
For ONE day, we had a schedule to go to many great places in Oklahoma City; however, we were not really in a hurry or we weren’t forced to “Go, go, go!” as the group tours usually tell their tourists. It is true that at first I was suspicious that we would not visit all the places on schedule - which seemed like too many places for one day- but we really made it. We went to the following places in OKC: State Capitol, Oklahoma History Center, OKC National Memorial, Lake Hefner for lunch, Museum of Art, Petroleum Club, Myriad Botanical Gardens, and Bricktown Canal.
State Capitol
The best part of the State Capitol was the ceiling—dome-shaped with gorden-colored flowers. The ceiling was surrounded by the pictures which describe the history of Oklahoma, early settlement in the USA, and Indians – their spirits and their lives. The big pictures were hung all around the wall. The pictures showed a variety of Oklahoma scenery and its weather of each season. The famous one – the tornado—looked very scary to me, and also the painted clear deep blue sky and the scenery made me feel like I was there. I liked the Oklahoma sky- the dynamic and energetic characters.
Oklahoma History Center
We were definitely lucky to be there because it had been held in the September festival! We had some hands-on experiences. I tried to make a horse with paper and wooden sticks, I had a virtual fishing – I caught largemouth bass! - I wore a cowboy hat and gun, and especially, I met a Native American wearing his costume and playing a traditional musical instrument. Learning its unique history, I saw lots of the visual exhibits of Oklahoma’s history, spirit and challenges.
OKC National Memorial
Museum of Art
It was one of my favorite places as a person who does appreciate art. First, I was happy that there was an art galley in OKC! Yahoo~ Second, I really wanted to go to the Museum of Art to see the special exhibit, More than Impressionism: Turner to Cezanne, so it was a double pleasure for me to enjoy lots of exhibits. Furthermore, I was impressed by Oklahoma glass art which is famous nationwide in the USA. I will visit the museum next time spending more time to appreciate works of art. Thank you for the great art information, MSA! My spirit will not be drained any longer in OKC.
Petroleum Club
It is a unique place where people are allowed to enter only by group tours or special invitations for a party. I think it might be the highest place in OKC. In Seoul where I come from, we have a tower called Seoul Tower where we can enjoy the whole view of Seoul. The elevator was amazingly speedy to get to the top. At the top of the building, I could see the whole view of Oklahoma City. The weather was a bit cloudy, but I enjoyed seeing the streets, the buildings, and even the cloudy sky.
Myriad Botanical Gardens
I am a “nature-friendly” person. I love trees, plants, flowers and animals. For anyone who likes to see lots of beautiful tropical plants, I highly recommend Myriad Botanical Gardens. In Korea, we don’t have tropical plants. I was amazed by the exotic plants and flowers and also, the decorations on the wall were so pretty; I felt like I was in a magic land. It was raining outside, so unfortunately we couldn’t go to the outdoor gardens. I will go to Myriad Botanical Gardens again.
Bricktown Canal
The OKC Day Tour Trip 2009 was an amazing experience for me. I had a good time learning about Oklahoma and its history, having pure fun and excitement, and making many good friends from many different countries. If you have a flyer about the OKC Day Tour Trip, you should have the time to gain multiple benefits in one day. I am sure you will like it!
Ellie Kim (TESOL Graduate Student)
MSA E-newsletter Coordinator
On Sep 12, 2009, I got the chance to make my new life wonderful with good memories and experiences in the USA thanks to Multicultural Student Association at OCU. The date was also an anniversary to celebrate my first month in the USA. As I spent a month in my new life at OCU, everything was absolutely new. Especially, Oklahoma City was a place that I hadn’t heard about before, nor could imagine staying to live and study. So, I was eager to know about my new place, and the OKC Day Tour was a great chance to quench my thirst, for sure!
For ONE day, we had a schedule to go to many great places in Oklahoma City; however, we were not really in a hurry or we weren’t forced to “Go, go, go!” as the group tours usually tell their tourists. It is true that at first I was suspicious that we would not visit all the places on schedule - which seemed like too many places for one day- but we really made it. We went to the following places in OKC: State Capitol, Oklahoma History Center, OKC National Memorial, Lake Hefner for lunch, Museum of Art, Petroleum Club, Myriad Botanical Gardens, and Bricktown Canal.
State Capitol
The best part of the State Capitol was the ceiling—dome-shaped with gorden-colored flowers. The ceiling was surrounded by the pictures which describe the history of Oklahoma, early settlement in the USA, and Indians – their spirits and their lives. The big pictures were hung all around the wall. The pictures showed a variety of Oklahoma scenery and its weather of each season. The famous one – the tornado—looked very scary to me, and also the painted clear deep blue sky and the scenery made me feel like I was there. I liked the Oklahoma sky- the dynamic and energetic characters.
Oklahoma History Center
We were definitely lucky to be there because it had been held in the September festival! We had some hands-on experiences. I tried to make a horse with paper and wooden sticks, I had a virtual fishing – I caught largemouth bass! - I wore a cowboy hat and gun, and especially, I met a Native American wearing his costume and playing a traditional musical instrument. Learning its unique history, I saw lots of the visual exhibits of Oklahoma’s history, spirit and challenges.
OKC National Memorial
It was very sad and shocking news that I had heard in OKC. I couldn’t believe that bombing happened there. We walked through the gates of time, field of empty chairs and the survivor tree. It started raining when we got there. I prayed for the innocent and for hope.
Lake Hefner for lunch
The OKC board members rocked! I had a good lunch – yummy Chinese lunch with snacks and drinks, enjoying the view of the lake!
Museum of Art
It was one of my favorite places as a person who does appreciate art. First, I was happy that there was an art galley in OKC! Yahoo~ Second, I really wanted to go to the Museum of Art to see the special exhibit, More than Impressionism: Turner to Cezanne, so it was a double pleasure for me to enjoy lots of exhibits. Furthermore, I was impressed by Oklahoma glass art which is famous nationwide in the USA. I will visit the museum next time spending more time to appreciate works of art. Thank you for the great art information, MSA! My spirit will not be drained any longer in OKC.
Petroleum Club
It is a unique place where people are allowed to enter only by group tours or special invitations for a party. I think it might be the highest place in OKC. In Seoul where I come from, we have a tower called Seoul Tower where we can enjoy the whole view of Seoul. The elevator was amazingly speedy to get to the top. At the top of the building, I could see the whole view of Oklahoma City. The weather was a bit cloudy, but I enjoyed seeing the streets, the buildings, and even the cloudy sky.
Myriad Botanical Gardens
I am a “nature-friendly” person. I love trees, plants, flowers and animals. For anyone who likes to see lots of beautiful tropical plants, I highly recommend Myriad Botanical Gardens. In Korea, we don’t have tropical plants. I was amazed by the exotic plants and flowers and also, the decorations on the wall were so pretty; I felt like I was in a magic land. It was raining outside, so unfortunately we couldn’t go to the outdoor gardens. I will go to Myriad Botanical Gardens again.
Bricktown Canal
I was very happy that we have Bricktown in OKC! It was such an exciting and romantic place. The reason why I say “romantic” is because of the Bricktown Canal. I really didn’t know there was such a beautiful canal in Bricktown. Along the stream, there were little paths where couples, families and friends were walking, enjoying the stream and sightseeing. Some places were decorated by pictures that reminded me of old European streets; some places had little waterfalls which were the perfect match with the canal. My favorite part was the huge statues which described chasing and being chased by horse-ridings. It looked so realistic-- urgent faces, traces of the hooves, and carriages; I enjoyed watching them with bated breath.
The OKC Day Tour Trip 2009 was an amazing experience for me. I had a good time learning about Oklahoma and its history, having pure fun and excitement, and making many good friends from many different countries. If you have a flyer about the OKC Day Tour Trip, you should have the time to gain multiple benefits in one day. I am sure you will like it!
Ellie Kim (TESOL Graduate Student)
MSA E-newsletter Coordinator
Korean Culture Day
WHEN: November 11, 2009
WHERE: Great Hall - University Center
WHAT TIME: 12pm - 2pm
WHAT DO WE HAVE: Korean traditional food, culture show, silent auction and door prizes.
ADMISSION: $3 for everybody!!!
COME and CELEBRATE with OCU KOREAN COMMUNITY!!!!
Further information, contact Korean Student Association at jlim.stu2@my.okcu.edu
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Zombie Prom
Hey guys, from 8-9:30pm tomorrow in the Great Hall is Zombie Prom. You dress up in the most ghoulish, zombie-like costume you have and then enjoy yourself and have a great time! There will be food and drink and it's free! There is also a dance off with cash prizes!!! You don't even have to dress in formal wear, you just have to look like a zombie!! Come!
Also, tomorrow there is a blood drive but unfortunately I am hazy on the details. I shall update this post if I can get the information.
By the way, if anyone ever has problems with English or definitions whatever I would be glad to help. Just email sdwiest@my.okcu.edu.
Places to go this month: The PBar farms Corn Maze. They have laser tag, a petting zoo, the maze, and much more. It's only 7-8 dollars to get in and have a little fun. The trip is a little extensive because it is in the western part of the state but it's worth it. Check out pbarfarms.com to find out more.
Also, tomorrow there is a blood drive but unfortunately I am hazy on the details. I shall update this post if I can get the information.
By the way, if anyone ever has problems with English or definitions whatever I would be glad to help. Just email sdwiest@my.okcu.edu.
Places to go this month: The PBar farms Corn Maze. They have laser tag, a petting zoo, the maze, and much more. It's only 7-8 dollars to get in and have a little fun. The trip is a little extensive because it is in the western part of the state but it's worth it. Check out pbarfarms.com to find out more.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Mr & Ms OCU International 2009
Multicultural Student Association
Congratulates:
Mr. OCU International
Joshua Huges (Ecuador)
Joshua, a dual-citizen of the United States and Ecuador, is a freshman Music Education major. A singer, trumpeter and pianist, he is excited to pursue his dream of performing and teaching music once he graduates.
Ms. OCU International
Ruirui Ouyang (China)
Back in her hometown in China, she was a great music teacher at Tianjin Conservatory of Music. She is now a graduate student majoring in Piano performance at OCU.
The Runners up
Marcin Parys (Poland) & Tansi Guvantbhai Modi (India)
Pursuing a graduate degree in Piano Performance at OCU, Marcin wants to make his dream of being a professional concert performer come true after graduation.
Tansi proudly presented Indian culture at the Mr & Ms OCU International pageant with a traditional festival dance. Although she is majoring in Computer Science, her charming moves helped her become the runner up for Ms. OCU International.
People’s Choice Award
Noumane Rahouti (France) & Ruirui Ouyang (China)
He is originally from France, but his parents are Moroccan so he is Moroccan-French. He is pursuing his master degree in TESOL at OCU. Coming to Mr & Ms OCU International 2009, Noumane really excited the audiences with his modern dance. He wished he could have performed more if not due to limited time.
Ruirui Ouyang had such an excellent performance that she won great support from the audiences. She got most of the votes from the crowd.
Mr. & Ms. OCU International each receive a $200 tuition scholarship for Fall ‘09
The runners up each receive a $100 tuition scholarship for Fall ‘09
The People’s Choice winners received gift cards from various event sponsors.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
OKC Day Tour 2009
The OKC Day Tour
Hosted by OCU Multicultural Student Association
Visiting places:
Governor’s Mansion
State Capitol
Oklahoma History Center
OKC National Memorial
Museum of Art
Petroleum Club
Myriad Botanical Gardens
Bricktown Canal
We also had lunch at Lake Hefner under a very beautiful sky and in a nice weather surrounding by romantic landscape. As the coordinator, I really enjoyed this new idea which we didn't think of last year.
Taking the water taxi around bricktown is one of our new spot this year. Although it was raining at that time, for the first commers to OKC, this was a fantastic trip.
I myself made lots of new friends through this trip.
How about you???
Purple Bee
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
International Friend Program
I invite you to be part of the this program that matches international students with hosts from the Oklahoma City community. Our hosts come from the neighborhood, area churches, and the OCU campus.
Volunteers are matched with one or more of our students and agree to be a friend to them over the academic year through the following ways:
· Each month, invite you to spend time with them. This could be to share a meal in their home or in a restaurant, attending events such as festivals or concerts, or including you in their family celebrations. You decide together on the type and number of events.
· Each week, stay in touch with you through a phone call, email, or card.
· Recognize your birthday and other important dates.
To register: complete and return the attached application to:
Rev. Rodney Newman at Rnewman@okcu.edu
Or you may bring your application to his office in the chapel.
A reception to meet your host and further orientation to the program will be held Sunday, September 27, 2009. Attendance at this event is encouraged but not required.
Please contact Rev. Newman, program coordinator, with any questions.
Rodney Newman
University Chaplain
Oklahoma City University
2501 N Blackwelder
Oklahoma City OK 73106-1493
405-208-5484
rnewman@okcu.edu
Volunteers are matched with one or more of our students and agree to be a friend to them over the academic year through the following ways:
· Each month, invite you to spend time with them. This could be to share a meal in their home or in a restaurant, attending events such as festivals or concerts, or including you in their family celebrations. You decide together on the type and number of events.
· Each week, stay in touch with you through a phone call, email, or card.
· Recognize your birthday and other important dates.
To register: complete and return the attached application to:
Rev. Rodney Newman at Rnewman@okcu.edu
Or you may bring your application to his office in the chapel.
A reception to meet your host and further orientation to the program will be held Sunday, September 27, 2009. Attendance at this event is encouraged but not required.
Please contact Rev. Newman, program coordinator, with any questions.
Rodney Newman
University Chaplain
Oklahoma City University
2501 N Blackwelder
Oklahoma City OK 73106-1493
405-208-5484
rnewman@okcu.edu
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Pageant showcases diversity
The Multicultural Student Association is hosting Mr. and Mrs. OCU International 2009 at 6 p.m., Friday, Sept. 25 in Petree Hall in Kirpatrick Fine Arts Center.
Kyoungja Song, Mingwei Zhang, Minh Truong, Tansi Gunvanthbhai Modi, and Thien Do are competing for Mrs. OCU International 2009.
Noumane Rahouti, Sun Yue, Marcin Parys, and Joshua Hughes are competing for Mr. OCU International 2009.
Contestants will be judged on talent and a Q&A during the pageant. The judging panel consists of Christopher Roman Nose, Coordinator of the Multicultural Program, Kathleen Jernigan, Director of BCM, Dr. Rick Hall, Vice President of Student Affairs, and Dr. Robert Griffin, Associate Professor of TESOL.
The Master of Ceremony duty is shared by Tinasha Williams, Miss Black OCU 2007, and Jose Andrade. There will also be various special performances.
The Korean group will perform a traditional dance. Ana Todorova and Jesus Elizondo will dance the tango. Samantha Spears will play the French horn, and the 6-year-old son of Nakita Colbert, the Administrative Assistant, will make a special appearance.
Mr. and Mrs. OCU International 2008 were Jorge Marzola and Ewa Plonka. Jorge Marzola will be attending the 2009 pageant and will be making a special performance as well.
Miss Black OCU 2008 DeEtta Cravens will announce the winners of Mr. and Mrs. OCU International 2009. The People's Choice award will be given according to the audience's popular vote.
Admission for OCU faculty, staff, and students with ID is $3. Admission for the general public is $5.
From OCU Student Publication
Mary Larsh
Link: http://media.www.ocustupub.com/media/storage/paper1152/news/2009/09/24/News/Pageant.Showcases.Diversity-3782439.shtml
Kyoungja Song, Mingwei Zhang, Minh Truong, Tansi Gunvanthbhai Modi, and Thien Do are competing for Mrs. OCU International 2009.
Noumane Rahouti, Sun Yue, Marcin Parys, and Joshua Hughes are competing for Mr. OCU International 2009.
Contestants will be judged on talent and a Q&A during the pageant. The judging panel consists of Christopher Roman Nose, Coordinator of the Multicultural Program, Kathleen Jernigan, Director of BCM, Dr. Rick Hall, Vice President of Student Affairs, and Dr. Robert Griffin, Associate Professor of TESOL.
The Master of Ceremony duty is shared by Tinasha Williams, Miss Black OCU 2007, and Jose Andrade. There will also be various special performances.
The Korean group will perform a traditional dance. Ana Todorova and Jesus Elizondo will dance the tango. Samantha Spears will play the French horn, and the 6-year-old son of Nakita Colbert, the Administrative Assistant, will make a special appearance.
Mr. and Mrs. OCU International 2008 were Jorge Marzola and Ewa Plonka. Jorge Marzola will be attending the 2009 pageant and will be making a special performance as well.
Miss Black OCU 2008 DeEtta Cravens will announce the winners of Mr. and Mrs. OCU International 2009. The People's Choice award will be given according to the audience's popular vote.
Admission for OCU faculty, staff, and students with ID is $3. Admission for the general public is $5.
From OCU Student Publication
Mary Larsh
Link: http://media.www.ocustupub.com/media/storage/paper1152/news/2009/09/24/News/Pageant.Showcases.Diversity-3782439.shtml
Mr&Ms OCU International, sneak peak
Hi folks,
Long time never posted anything!! That’s my fault. I would like to encourage you guys to go watching the greatest performances ever, and that’s Mr&Ms OCU Int’l. This event has held every year to make the strong bonds between international students become stronger, and encourages the activities in OCU. I proudly say that I have watched this event every academic year I had at OCU. In the first year, my friend participated as the contestant from Thailand, and he performed the trumpet solo in the Thai traditional costume. That year was marvelous, and my friend got the runner-up. The second year, I had a chance to be president of Thai student association, and my brother has come for going school at OCU for the first semester. So, All Thai students at that time voted him to be the contestant from Thailand, and he admitted. My brother performance was Thai Boxing. He showed the tactic of Thai boxing, briefly in four or five minutes. The show was great, but unfortunately he did not get any prize. He felt little bit sorry, but that was the great chance for him to express his courage to be on the stage and show the great thing to the audiences. For this year, the event will be held at the same place, petree auditorium, Friday 25th at 7pm. From the rehearsal yesterday, I would say the great shows you would not like to miss are coming in the roll to let your eyes bedazzled. Come and enjoy the show, this is the last call!!!
Darkmolt
Long time never posted anything!! That’s my fault. I would like to encourage you guys to go watching the greatest performances ever, and that’s Mr&Ms OCU Int’l. This event has held every year to make the strong bonds between international students become stronger, and encourages the activities in OCU. I proudly say that I have watched this event every academic year I had at OCU. In the first year, my friend participated as the contestant from Thailand, and he performed the trumpet solo in the Thai traditional costume. That year was marvelous, and my friend got the runner-up. The second year, I had a chance to be president of Thai student association, and my brother has come for going school at OCU for the first semester. So, All Thai students at that time voted him to be the contestant from Thailand, and he admitted. My brother performance was Thai Boxing. He showed the tactic of Thai boxing, briefly in four or five minutes. The show was great, but unfortunately he did not get any prize. He felt little bit sorry, but that was the great chance for him to express his courage to be on the stage and show the great thing to the audiences. For this year, the event will be held at the same place, petree auditorium, Friday 25th at 7pm. From the rehearsal yesterday, I would say the great shows you would not like to miss are coming in the roll to let your eyes bedazzled. Come and enjoy the show, this is the last call!!!
Darkmolt
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
First experience!!!
I planned my trip to OCU a year ago when I decided to pursue my MBA program in the U.S. There are lots of reasons leading to my final decision to attend OCU. First is the high ranking of OCU in the Top 25 Master’s Universities in the West, by U.S.News & World Report. There are more than 3,000 schools and universities in the U.S., and this can speak for OCU’s educational quality. Therefore, OCU attracted me with the small class sizes, which allows students to have high personal attention. For an international student like me, this makes me feel a part of the class and allows me to get more involved in class work. One more thing made me make up my mind at that time is the global environment OCU provides to students, an international and integrative atmosphere in which you will have a chance to get along with students from more than 60 countries around the world. To me, not only the knowledge I would like to gain when I decided to study in the U.S., but also the unique experience I could never get from anywhere else.
I have been in Oklahoma City for several months and the experience I have gained here is unforgettable. Life here is very peaceful and the people are very friendly and helpful. I have some really nice local friends who have helped me a lot for my first time in the U.S. I love every beautiful moment we share and learning about the different cultures together.
Even now that I live so far away from home, I can still enjoy my home country’s food every day because there’s a variety of Asian markets and districts around OCU and Oklahoma City.
In addition, Oklahoma City is one of the cities having the lowest cost of living in the U.S. For a student who loves traveling like me, this may help save a little money for my next summer trip to some neighbor states around Oklahoma.
One more interesting thing I can’t stand not to share is having an on-campus job at OCU. Now I’m a work study student in the OCU International Admissions Office. I used to have a similar job when I was in Vietnam. The valuable experience I gained from such a great job by advising and helping students with study abroad procedures supports my current job at OCU as an International Student Ambassador. Every day, I greet current and prospective international students, help them with application procedures and assist International Admission Counselors with enrollment process. Meeting students from many different countries and listening to their different situations are interesting and makes me feel helpful being here.
One word I can say about OCU and Oklahoma is “wonderful.” I have had a very good beginning here from life to school and work. I did my first two semesters at OCU very well and was appreciated by professors. All these things make me want to engage my time in the U.S. to OCU and Oklahoma City.
Peanut Butter
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Mr & Ms OCU International 2009
Mr & Ms OCU International is an annual event hosted by OCU Multicultural Student Association.
This is a fantastic presentation of international student pageantry, fused with local performances. Please join us in celebrating Oklahoma City University’s unique cultural diversity. The pageant presents students from various parts of the world who would greatly appreciate your support!
Funds go toward scholarships and other cultural events sponsored by the Multicultural Student Association.
Participating in the contest, you are able to become a King/Queen and win an award of $200.
Other participants will also be rewarded other prizes.
This year, the contest will be held at Petree Hall @ Wanda Bass Music School on September 25th.
Contestant registration, please contact MSA staff at:
Rui Zhang: 702 683 1219
rzhang.stu@my.okcu.edu
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Good bye my friends!!
My friend just left OKC to work in one of the big city in West coast. We have been friends in the same group of study, playing, or hanging out for two years. We had fun studying together in the first semester we had. The second semester, we went to Colorado for Spring break. Everyone in our group was so happy. Beginning of third semester, the break out began. Some of our friend had to move to other living places, and the school time and class were different. This made me have not met them as often as before. The fourth semester, ironic semester, we had almost graduated. All friends had not much time to hang out one another. They put all time and effort focusing on the last semester to complete the master degree. After the semester finished, we had the last funniest party ever together. I went back to my countries for visiting my parents. During that visiting, some of my friends moved back to their countries, some moved to work other places. I had no chance to say good bye in front of their face. The most recent, I had luncheon for my friend farewell party, and after that, I had a chance to say good-bye at the other night while he started drove his car to seek the new great life in other places. Do not leave your friends without saying some good words, this is a tip.
Darkmolt
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Editor’s Space:
Ah..!!! The Monday morning blues are back!!!! We start a new semester with renewed hope and determination of doing well. So let me welcome you folks back to school. Hope you had a wonderful time during your X-mass break, I sure did. As we take our nascent steps into the portals of 2009 I was wondering if any one of us had planned for the year. The first thing I did was to find all the holidays in this year and started the countdown to my next holiday. I was thinking that even though we do not particularly like going to school, it is actually the only time when we can be frivolous about life and enjoy it to the fullest. Many of us take it for granted that we will see all our classmates (except for a few of ‘them’) after we graduate but it is only a myth, because in reality many of us will move to different states or countries and take up various assignments. So to sum it up I would like to suggest to you folks out there to enjoy the last remaining days of school/college life you have left in Oklahoma City University.
Kara Jin.
Christmas: 2008
Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. It is celebrated on the 25th in December. It is a secular celebration and this was acknowledge by the US government in 1870 when it was declared a federal holiday. Christmas was celebrated at OCU
prior to December 25th last year. We had a Christmas lunch and there was also a cultural event presented by the Dance and Music school. The cultural program was exquisite and a treat to watch.
I celebrated my Christmas with my family and friends; we had a 6foot Christmas tree which we enjoyed decorating together. The fun of it was decorating the tree in each of our own creative way. While decorating the tree we shared different events we had experienced during the year and sharing it amongst one another brought us together as a family. After we had finished decorating the tree we took snaps with it and laid out the various presents we had brought for one another. Then we were treated to a lavish lunch prepared by my aunt which I must say was AWESOME!!!!! Finger licking, lip smacking, you get the idea...... After that we headed for a round of siesta and were only back on our feet very late in the evening. We then got to opening our presents and wishing each other. The day was over in a blink of an eye and I had a wonderful time which I would cherish and remember for a long time.
prior to December 25th last year. We had a Christmas lunch and there was also a cultural event presented by the Dance and Music school. The cultural program was exquisite and a treat to watch.I celebrated my Christmas with my family and friends; we had a 6foot Christmas tree which we enjoyed decorating together. The fun of it was decorating the tree in each of our own creative way. While decorating the tree we shared different events we had experienced during the year and sharing it amongst one another brought us together as a family. After we had finished decorating the tree we took snaps with it and laid out the various presents we had brought for one another. Then we were treated to a lavish lunch prepared by my aunt which I must say was AWESOME!!!!! Finger licking, lip smacking, you get the idea...... After that we headed for a round of siesta and were only back on our feet very late in the evening. We then got to opening our presents and wishing each other. The day was over in a blink of an eye and I had a wonderful time which I would cherish and remember for a long time.
SUE CHANG.
INTERNATIONAL SHOWCASE
Hi friends. I, Tahira had the opportunity of covering the International Showcase event this year. We had this event on the 20th of November 2008 at Alvin Café and I was instructed by my E-newsletter chief Kara Jin to get to the event by 7:00am. So promptly I was there by 7:12am, hey do not look at me like that because to the best of my knowledge Kara can’t even get up before 9am, well that is another debate altogether. Anyway so as I headed to the event I was greeted by the familiar faces of the three associations which were participating: The Malaysian student association, The Saudi Arabian student Association and The Indian Student Association. We were ushered into the board room of Sodexho which was sponsoring this event. Let me elaborate on the event a little bit, as some of you may know this was an event organized through the assistance of Sodexho and gist of it was for every association to prepare a food item which may be an entrée or a main course or desert and to present it for lunch on that day. After we were seated in the board room we were greeted by the Head Chef who explained the various rules and how their team at Sodexho would assist the participants without actually interfering with the competition. After the serious stuff was done with then the fun stuff began. The teams were allocated different locations in the kitchen and they went about their work. Since I had no work till the food was prepared I stated to contemplate on life and stated to think philosophically for the next few hours. As the saying goes ‘Time and Tide wait for none ’, time just flew by and we had the students pouring in to get into the café. There was a mad rush to get in and as the freshly prepared food was brought out from the kitchen to the café, it caused a minor stampede as people lost all sense of propriety as they were mesmerized by the aromas of the food prepared by the teams. Being a good connoisseur of food I enjoyed the food to such an extent that I was bought by the three teams lock, stock and barrel. The students enjoyed it to the maximum and finally the event came to an end when they ran out of food. But the event was so popular that the café had record sales for the quarter and they requested the MSA which organized it to conduct it more often. Here's the list of the food that were presented at the event.Saudi Student Organizations – Kabash
Indian Student Organization – Chicken Biryani
Malaysian Student Organization – Harum Kasturi & Kuih Ketayap
Indian Student Organization – Chicken Biryani
Malaysian Student Organization – Harum Kasturi & Kuih Ketayap
I will leave you with some photographs from the event….
Tahira.B
Folks with a heavy heart we bid goodbye to Yuliana Hermanto a.k.a Yuli a.k.a 'Leader' among her close friends.....She was our Graphic designer and she used to help us out in different activities. She has moved to another university as of this semester and we wish her all the best in her future endevours.
Bye.
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