Greetings from ISI! We’re excited to share the incredible success of ISI Princeton’s Fall Fun Festival. The event brought together a vibrant mix of individuals, including 34 international students from Princeton University and Princeton Theological Seminary, comprising grad students, post-doctoral research fellows, and visiting scholars.

In a heartwarming display of unity, attendees from diverse corners of the globe, including nations like Chad, China, Egypt, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Myanmar (Burma), Nigeria, Philippines, South Korea, Sweden, U.K., U.S., Zambia, and more, gathered around tables to break bread together. The spread included a delightful array of corn, apple, and pumpkin varieties, along with a myriad of chilis, unexpected international delicacies, and fresh salads. And what’s a fall event without some hot apple cider? Students got to indulge in the aromatic delight of hot, cinnamon-spiced apple cider that added an extra touch of fall magic to the evening.

While many were ISI event veterans, for about a third of the students and post-docs, this was their first-ever ISI social gathering. The excitement and camaraderie were palpable as everyone dove into the array of activities. Line-dancing, pumpkin-carving, spirited cornhole and Spikeball matches, and crafting and savoring S’mores around a cozy fire pit filled the night with laughter and cherished moments.

A standout was the unexpected surge of enthusiasm at the pumpkin-carving station. Watching future leaders in academia, science, business, and government channel their creativity into carving pumpkins was an uplifting surprise. The pride and excitement were tangible as these pumpkins turned into artworks meant to be shared with families across the globe through virtual connections and proudly displayed on campus.

The genuine connections and friendships formed under the starlit sky made a lasting impact. The event’s success is owed to our 24 ISI volunteer partners from diverse churches, whose dedication played a key role in creating a memorable evening!