The Center for International Programs welcomed international students to the campus of CSU-Pueblo with its semiannual welcome party in the Occhiato University Center Underground Ballroom.

The event, which was held Sept. 18 at 5:30 p.m., offered students free dinner and live music.

Director of the Center for Academic Enrichment Derek Lopez and his band, Kemosabe, played live music while people had a traditional American meal that included fried chicken, hot dogs, potato salad, apple pie and lemonade. The event was free to international students and their invited guests.

CIP Director Annie Williams said the organization holds the party every fall and spring semester at the third week after the semester staring. For this event, they expected 125 students to attend and were near that estimate at the end of the event.

The organization decided to hold the event with an “America” theme in order to help international students understand American culture and better integrate into society during their time on campus.

Allen Chen, a senior in the engineering department, said he enjoyed the American food and live music.

Other students used the event as an opportunity to practice speaking English, make new friends and learn about American culture.

Later in the semester, the CIP will also hold Oktoberfest, which is a traditional German festival that provides the opportunity to taste different types of beer. The organization will also hold a Halloween party and is considering hosting a pool tournament if interest prevails.