Everyone loves food. Beyond the fact that it’s required for survival, food is a major part of our lives. Many of our social gatherings either are “let’s meet up for breakfast/lunch/dinner/dessert/coffee” or “let’s grab a bite to eat before/after the meeting” or “How does dinner and a movie sound for date night?” Food is a better conversation topic than the weather. Free food motivates students to attend events on campus. In fact, I have two food related events tomorrow night.

Last time I made my baked mac and cheese

First, the student ambassadors are hosting a potluck dinner for international students studying abroad at UCF this semester. Each ambassador is encouraged to bring something related to their culture. As someone who best defines myself as a “purebred mutt” (both of my parents having ancestors from many different countries), I’ve decided to do something pretty American and make a big pan of baked mac and cheese. I’m not exactly the best cook, but I’ve figured out this dish enough that it’s always very popular with my friends. In addition to my dish, I’m excited to try what my peers bring and get to know the students from other countries.

After the potluck, a UCF student startup is being featured on the show Shark Tank. The company is O’Dang Hummus and their goal is to be the Ben & Jerry’s of hummus, bringing unique flavors such as “Bombalicious Buffalo” and “Dillionaire” (dill pickle). They also carry hummus based salad dressings that will soon be sold in Publix stores. Their appearance means a lot not just for their business, but for UCF as a whole. It puts a spotlight on all the resources UCF has for student startups such as the Blackstone Launchpad and Upstarts. There will be a watch party for the episode in the student union from 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM where anyone in attendance will be able to sample the product (while it lasts!)

If I see any of you tomorrow, forgive me if I look like this: