The university’s annual Friendship International Banquet brings a whole new meaning to the term “melting pot.”

That’s because it offers an opportunity to not only meet people from other cultures, but also sample a potluck variety of ethnic foods.

This year’s banquet is set for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, in the Multipurpose Room of the Roaden University Center. It’s sponsored jointly by the International Student Affairs Office and the International Community Hospitality Association.

The ICHA helps TTU’s international students transition to a new culture by providing “host families” for them. Although the students live on campus, they rely on their host families to introduce them to the culture of the local community with invitations to such events as meals and family gatherings, holiday celebrations and other outings.

The Friendship International Banquet, however, allows international students an opportunity to share some of their culture with the local community.

“Anyone who’s interested in learning more about another culture and anyone who’s interested in the possibility of becoming a host family is especially encouraged to attend the banquet,” says Katie Kumar, an organizer of ICHA.

The event is free, but all participants are asked to bring a potluck dish of at least 12 servings to share with other attendees. Beverages and paper goods will be provided.

For more information about the Friendship International Banquet or ICHA, call Katie Kumar at 6197.