THUNDER BAY — Both Lakehead University and Confederation College are furthering efforts to make every student feel welcome in Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario.
Last week marked the sixth annual Holiday Dinner that was put on by the Assisting International Students Together organization.
Founder Silas Young feels it’s important to welcome international students with open arms into their home -- away from home.
“This is our little way of gathering together a Thunder Bay family, having a nice meal and celebration and giving everyone a chance to celebrate, recharge their batteries and enter next semester with passion and vigour," added Young.
Approximately fifty students attended the dinner, which was catered by Tomlin Restaurant.
LU Student Mei Lan Dowling says it's a great opportunity for international students to learn more about their host country's culture.
“It's so important to give international students a sense of comfort and a sense of, you know, maybe [this isn’t] home, but [perhaps] they don't have to miss home that much during the holidays,” Dowling mentioned.
“I do think it's great for some people who don't even celebrate Christmas to experience a bit of what's Christmas is like in their host countries as well."
Assisting International Students Together plans on expanding their guest list to over 100 for the next holiday season.
