One event I attended was an InterNations event. I was informed of this organization through a
contact that works in the Hospitality Industry, working at the Fairmont.
InterNations is an organization that hosts events for foreign nationals living
within the DC area. While it does plan large-scale conferences such as other
organizations, it organizes events for not only expatriates, but also foreign
embassies and organizations.
The event I attended was a
meet-and-greet for new members. Being from France, I immediately found myself
in an environment familiar to me. Many of the persons present were from Europe.
However, many citizens of South American, Asian and African nations were also
present. Despite being surrounded by fellow foreigners, I still felt somewhat
uncomfortable, as I did not anyone. However, as the evening progressed, people
started opening up and everything ran smoothly.
While attending the event, I asked
the host what InterNations did specifically. I was informed that their main
duty is to connect foreigners together by setting up events. The nature of
these events vary: some are happy hours, while others are visits to museums or
historic parts of DC, and even sometimes conferences. Furthermore, if a foreign
delegation is in town, they often rent out venues and have a member of the
delegation address the crowd.
This event was interesting as I got
to see how foreigners interact in a different country. Furthermore, I got to
learn how to set up events made for expatriates. It was rewarding as once
again, I got to experience an event that I am not familiar with.
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