International Students pumpkin-carving party

In late October, HFC International Student Services hosted its eighth annual pumpkin-carving party in the John McDonald Student and Culinary Arts Center (Building M on the main campus). This annual event is a way for the College to welcome its international students and introduce them to a uniquely American tradition: Carving a pumpkin.

“The heavy rain did not deter these students from joining the fun,” said HFC International Student advisor Sara Gonzalez Herrera.

She and fellow HFC International Student advisor Sulian Larmond co-hosted this party. They demonstrated to seven students (five international and two guests) how to carve a pumpkin for the Halloween season. Everyone listened to Halloween-themed music and consumed spiced doughnuts and apple cider from a local cider mill – another uniquely American tradition – as the students worked on their own unique creations.

“This is the second time I’ve participated in the pumpkin-carving party at HFC. I had such a great time last year. It was a fun day with lots of great memories. I’m really happy I got to be part of it again,” said HFC student Abdullah Moussan.

It was also the second time for HFC student Mohammad Dawi.

“I really like these kinds of events because they help me communicate with international students from different countries. It’s also a great time to spend with friends,” said Dawi.

This was the first time HFC student Chikhulupiliro Sosola ever carved a pumpkin.

“I didn’t know it was this easy,” he said, laughing. “I had so much fun.”