Senior citizens sat chatting and enjoying lasagna soup Wednesday afternoon while awaiting the arrival of Bolormaa Enkhbat, a University student from Mongolia.
Once a month, the Petersen Barn Senior Community Center has a “soup of the month” luncheon where students from the University’s International Cultural Service Program are invited to speak.
Enkhbat, an environmental studies major, discussed everything from horse racing in Mongolia to the Soviet influence in Mongolian music videos. Throughout the hour she entertained an active audience, fielding questions from seniors at the turn of every topic.
She welcomed the inquiries.
“I’m the only Mongolian in town, I’m pretty sure, so now is your chance,” she said.
Diane Scont, the ICSP program coordinator for Petersen Barn Senior Community Center, said that the luncheon symbolizes the 25-year relationship between ICSP and the community at large.
“I’m always happy with whoever they send, it always broadens horizons,” Scont said, “I think we’re in agreement, she was one of the best speakers we’ve had.”
Enkhbat said the discussions are mutually beneficial.
“I really enjoy giving presentations because it’s a very rewarding experience; not only am I able to share with other people, but I’ve I learned a lot during the process,” she said. The ICSP welcomed about 25 new students to the University this quarter from all around the globe, and each student is required to complete 80 hours of cultural and educational
service to the community in return for scholarship assistance.
Enkhbat described the community speeches as an easy and enriching gig.
“We give a lot of presentations, it depends on the requesters; like if someone requests us we’re more than happy to go, we’re required to do 80 hours a year, that doesn’t always happen. Some people do more, some people do less. I have one right now after this,” she explained while packing her laptop.
The senior citizens at Petersen Barn on Wednesday understood how busy students are and said they were thankful that students make time to stop by and share a little bit about their culture.
“I think this is a great opportunity for people to learn,” said John McCleen, a former Peace Corps member and 27-yearOregon resident. “I just think it’s really important for bridging that difference. We talk about diversity, but I don’t know how diverse we really are.”
Unlike most present, McCleen was a first time attendee at the luncheon.
“I retired about six years ago, and I didn’t know what to do. I’m 65 so I’m branching out a little,” he said.” This kind of got my fancy. After all, it’s better than basket-weaving.”
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Sharing life’s stories
Daily Emerald
November 18, 2009
Ivar Vong
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