International Dinners

At the time of writing this, we are in week three at UCSD, and our Bridges events are thriving. Historically, our first international dinner each year has been well-attended, but the second dinner often sees a drop-off. This year, however, we are seeing between thirty-five to fifty international students at every dinner, and it’s more than just numbers. It’s not just exciting to see a large turnout — what’s truly special is the depth of connection we’re witnessing.

At our third dinner, we discussed the topic of "dreams." We handed out quarter-page sheets with questions that encouraged students to reflect on their dreams, the obstacles they face, and what drives them to pursue their aspirations. The sheets also included two Bible passages: Jeremiah 29:11 ("For I know the plans I have for you...") and Proverbs 16:9 ("In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps"). What stood out to me was not just how many students were engaging with the material, but how deeply they were reflecting on it.

One group of Indian students, in particular, left a lasting impression. After I briefly introduced myself and mentioned the discussion prompts, I mentioned that I would love to discuss these things with them later if they were interested. To my surprise, when I finally made my way back to their table, they had been eagerly waiting for me. All six of them had spent time discussing the questions and were ready to dive into a meaningful conversation with me. One student, who shared that she is Catholic, even told me that Jeremiah 29:11 is her favorite verse — one she frequently uses as a reminder of God’s faithfulness.

Another highlight of the evening was the overwhelming appreciation the students expressed for the meal. Though I don’t consider myself a great cook, the students’ gratitude made it clear that they felt loved and valued through the effort we put into preparing the dinner. No less than ten students came up to thank me, telling me how much they enjoyed the food, which was a powerful reminder that small acts of service can make a big impact.