Being involved in OU Cousin’s has been a wonderful four years. I was a shy freshman when I first started, and then I joined the Cousin’s Advisory Board my junior year officially. 

This year, the year flew by. I can’t believe I graduate next Friday, the 15th. OU Cousin’s has been my rock whenever I needed it. From weekly meetings that we did in the beginning of the semester to bi-weekly meetings once we had a chance to breathe. 

From events I helped promote such as matching party to events even I was surprised by (like the BBQ). I can’t recall a single event that I missed on campus other than Zumba. Game nights, karaoke, matching parties, and even the picnic that we hosted to end off the semester. 

One of my greatest achievements (other than growing outside of my shell to become a bit more extroverted. Which, according to MBTI I went from 100% introverted to 96% introverted. Improvements!). I helped gather sponsors for our biggest events of the year, which is OU Cousin’sFriendsgiving and OU Cousin’s BBQ. The food is always our biggest expense, so being able to get that off of our plate was a huge relief, and I am glad I taught others how to do the same. 

Attending the events as a member of Cousin’s Advisory Board allowed me to see connections being fostered in real time, and it allowed me to mingle with those who might’ve felt left out. It’s a nice perspective, as I was one of those who felt like that and was greeted by old CAB members. 

I cannot trade the experience for the world, and I am going to miss being in OU Cousin’s and creating events for all the new international and domestic students. 

Best,

Destiny Monroe 

Attending the OU Cousins BBQ was a memorable experience that brought together students from many different cultures in a fun and welcoming environment. The OU Cousin’s BBQ was hosted on March 31st, 2025. The event was designed to introduce international students to a traditional Western style barbecue while also giving everyone the opportunity to connect and learn from one another. I had not planned this event, so I had no idea what was going on as special surprises were being floated around. From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere felt warm and inviting, with a live band playing. They were greeted and given cowboy hats and bandanas!

One of the highlights of the event was the food. There were classic barbecue dishes that represented an important part of American culture, and many international students were excited to try them. We usually get the same menu every time which includes rolls, brisket, fried chicken, and ice cream. It was interesting to see how food could become a way to start conversations and create friendships. One of the special surprises that shocked us all was there was a cotten candy machine!

The event also included line dancing that encouraged participation and teamwork. Our line dance instructor had us doing it solo for a few before we had to find partners, which was another way that I got to talk to new people! I enjoyed meeting people from different backgrounds and learning about their cultures while also sharing my own experiences during food.

It was a great opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity where President Harroz spoke to the crowd and we took photos at the end!

best,

Destiny Monroe

Eve of Nation is a yearly event at the University of Oklahoma that is hosted by IAC. This year, it was hosted April 10th, 2026 at the McCasland Field House. This year the theme was Kairos.

They had a lot of new countries represented this year, such as Russia, Madagascar, and Slovakia that I do not recall being in previous years. We had guest performances alongside the student organizations. My favorite performance this year was the Dhamaka Dance Team which is a part of the Iranian Student Association. I believe they deserved number one, but that was taken by Afrobeatz, which represented the East African Alliance. They are usually my favorite (and they win every year), but this year I felt like they were topped.

The Venezuelan Student Association was amazing, and the girl singer performed splendidly.

I enjoyed the messages that were given out during the performances. One of the stories about Afghanistan was a very eye opening one, in my opinion. It was about how all women are not the same, especially in such a strict regime. Another one was titled “Freedom Comes Tomorrow”, and it inspired many young girls to become change makers in their community.

Overall, the event was filled with culture from all over the world that came together on one stage. It is the largest international event at the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma in general. It is a place that fosters global connections and celebrates the heritage of most of the countries represented in the student body at the University of Oklahoma. This is why I went to this event for all four years of my time, and I will genuinely miss it when I am no longer here.

Best,

Destiny Monroe