Texas A&M University-Commerce’s African Student Association (ASA) chapter offers more than just cultural education to the University, according to transfer student Ashley Ofuokwu. ASA also offers a welcoming home-away-from-home environment.
“I am a transfer student from Kansas and this is my first semester with ASA,” Ofuokwu said. “They immediately welcomed me in their organization as if I have been here for years.”
Solomon Bortey agrees.
“My experience with ASA has been surprisingly awesome. All of the bonding periods, and where you see Africans just having fun and goofing off, is good and it makes you feel at home and helps you release the stress and worries of school work,” Bortey said. “It is a good break [from the stress].”
This semester, ASA has lined up several events to promote cultural diversity on campus.
One of the upcoming events ASA is sponsoring this semester on campus is the Third Annual Day in Africa to educate students on African culture.
“Students will be educated on African culture and enjoy music and traditional African food,” Ofuokwu said.
Bortey is also excited about the event.
“The Day in Africa event is something I’m looking forward to because it will help people who do not have any idea about African culture,” Bortey said.
According to Ofuokwu, ASA will also be hosting a fundraising bake sale that will satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth
Ofuokwu is also looking forward to participating with ASA in the Homecoming parade, which will be held Saturday, Nov. 1, at 10:30 a.m.
“This year we have a fun theme that everyone will have to wait and see,” Ofuokwu said.
Any student wishing to join ASA can do so by contacting chapter president Sharon Omoikhudu or attending the meetings on Wednesdays at 5 p.m. on the second floor of the Memorial Student Center.
“ASA helps the University in many ways, not only are we bringing culture and diversity to the campus, we also encourage all ethnic groups to join so that we can enhance our knowledge on different cultures,” Ofuokwu said. “ASA is fun and uplifting, and there is no doubt that when you leave a meeting you will feel inspired and jubilant.”